# Advancing Gender Equity in International Eyecare: A Roadmap in Creating the Women Leaders in Eye Health (WLEH) Initiative

## TL;DR

This paper presents a global initiative to promote gender equity in eye health by supporting women through mentorship and leadership development.

## Contribution

The WLEH initiative is introduced as a collaborative model using virtual and in-person platforms to address gender disparities in ophthalmology.

## Key findings

- Virtual platforms like webinars and networking sessions effectively engage women in ophthalmology.
- The WLEH initiative expanded to in-person events in 2023 due to strong global demand.
- Collaborative initiatives can create scalable solutions for gender equity in healthcare.

## Abstract

Gender inequality remains a persistent issue in healthcare, especially in ophthalmology, where women face systemic barriers such as pay gaps, limited surgical opportunities, harassment, and unequal family expectations. Despite increasing entry into the field, women remain underrepresented in leadership, affecting career advancement and patient care. This study examines how virtual platforms, and co-led initiatives can address gender disparities in eye health. In 2021, Women in Ophthalmology, Seva Foundation, and Orbis International launched the Women’s Leaders in Eye Health (WLEH) initiative—a global community promoting mentorship, networking, and leadership development. Starting with virtual webinars and informal networking, the initiative expanded to in-person events in 2023 due to strong global engagement and demand. Early virtual programming, including webinars and “Coffee Hour” sessions, proved effective and laid the groundwork for broader offerings such as mentorship and professional development grants. WLEH’s success underscores the power of collaboration in promoting gender equity. By fostering connections and leadership pathways, WLEH offers a scalable model to break down gender challenges and uplift the next generation of women leaders to deliver more accessible eyecare globally.