Leaveson Thom is an accomplished optometrist, academic and a researcher with over a decade of experience in clinical eye care, optometry education and research across Southern Africa. He currently serves as Coordinator and Lecturer in Optometry at the University of Zimbabwe, where he teaches, supervises, and mentors undergraduate and postgraduate students while contributing to research and curriculum development. He is also the Head Consultant Optometrist and Contact Lens Specialist at Optinova Africa, leading clinical operations, strategic planning, and professional training initiatives. Thom holds a BSc, Master’s degree, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Optometry at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. His research interests include keratoconus, corneal diseases, contact lenses and visual impairment. He has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed publications and continues to lead impactful research projects aimed at improving eye care systems and patient outcomes in Africa. Throughout his career, Leaveson Thom has held leadership and clinical positions in both public and private healthcare sectors in Malawi and Zimbabwe, earning recognition for excellence in professional practice. He is an active member of several professional bodies, including the International Association of Contact Lens Educators, African Council of Optometry (AFCO) Education committee, the Malawi Optometric Association, and the Zimbabwe Optometry Association.