Episode Details

Mentorship in optometry is one of the most influential forces shaping confident clinicians, strong leaders, and a sustainable future for the profession. Whether you are an experienced optometrist or an optometry student just beginning your journey, meaningful mentorship does not happen by chance—it is built through intention, trust, and follow-through.

This conversation was explored alongside Dr. Jacobi Cleaver, Chief Program Officer at Black EyeCare Perspective and co-host of the OD’ing on Movies podcast. Through his work in mentorship, education, and storytelling, Dr. Cleaver has helped shape pathways for optometry students and early-career optometrists by connecting clinical development with identity, culture, and purpose.

His perspective reinforces why mentorship in optometry must extend beyond technical skill-building. It is about access, representation, and helping future optometrists see what is possible—not only in patient care, but in leadership, advocacy, and innovation across the profession.

Effective mentorship in optometry requires clarity on both sides of the relationship. Below is a practical framework outlining the role of the optometrist as a mentor and the responsibility of the optometry student or early-career optometrist as a mentee.

The Mentor’s Role in Optometry

1. Normalize the Struggle in the Optometry Journey

Mentorship in optometry starts with honesty.

Every optometrist—regardless of practice setting—has experienced uncertainty, self-doubt, and impos