Events Driving Change

In a busy world, that is often overflowing with noise and uncertainty, in-person connection matters. That is why IAPB events, from 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE and online Membership Meetings to UN Friends of Vision screenings and high-level breakfast meetings, are not just dates on a calendar. They are powerful catalysts, helping move us closer to a world where eye care is accessible, available, and affordable to all. Each year we work to bring hundreds if not thousands of our members and the global eye health community together to achieve this ambitious shared strategy goal. 

Events have the unique ability to create space for conversations that shift priorities, create collaborative action and unlock resources. At the World Health Assembly, the UN, and our regional gatherings, we bring together hundreds of policymakers, funders, and advocates to keep eye health visible in the crowded landscape of global health each year. These moments help position eye health as a critical part of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and universal health coverage. 

Take the UN Friends of Vision screening event in New York for World Sight Day 2024, where UN staff received eye tests and, where needed, glasses. For many on that day, it was a first step in understanding the simplicity and impact of eye care. But beyond the numbers tested, the event sent a message through the halls of the UN that eye health is essential to dignity, opportunity, and involvement at home and work. 

At 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE, we saw this in action on a global scale. With over 700+ leaders from across sectors joined to share progress, challenges, and strategies, creating connections that turn dialogue into delivery, including The Prime Minister of Nepal, the Right Honourable Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli and other key Ministers pledging their country’s commitment to accessible eye health. Commitments such as this, made at these events, whether around school screening programmes, national financing strategies, or workplace eye health initiatives, demonstrate how convening can transform intention into impact. 

Behind each event is careful planning to ensure we don’t just gather for the sake of it, but use every gathering to have purpose, vision and be curated to build momentum toward the 2030 global strategy goals. We consider who needs to be in the room, how to foster honest discussions, and ways to create practical pathways for follow-up action. We design sessions to be interactive, ensuring lived experiences and the voices of people affected by low vision are heard alongside decision-makers. 

As we look ahead, IAPB will continue to leverage events to drive progress. We are committed to creating platforms where cross-sector collaboration is not just encouraged but expected, where new ideas are sparked, and where commitments translate into measurable actions for eye health. 

To get connected and stay up to date with our events or promote your own events, see our events calendar.

“Being part of the IAPB Global Event was an inspiring and energizing experience. The collaboration, shared knowledge, and collective commitment to eye health showcased the global momentum toward achieving universal access to vision care. IAPB continues to be a powerful force for change, and it’s an honour to contribute to this vital mission.” – 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE, Speaker and Delegate