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Beyond City Limits at the OAO Symposium 2026

  • Writer: beyondcitylimitsod
    beyondcitylimitsod
  • Mar 19
  • 2 min read
Leading the Way in Rural Practice Awareness in Canada

Parliament building with logos for Ontario Association of Optometrists and "Beyond City Limits." Text: OAO Symposium 2026, Ottawa March 27-29.

We’re thrilled to announce that the team at Beyond City Limits will be attending the OAO Symposium 2026 from March 27–29 in Ottawa, ON! This annual gathering brings together the brightest minds in optometry, from researchers and clinicians to innovators and educators, for three days of presentations, collaborative workshops, and transformative discussions shaping the future of our profession.


Our team had some exciting wins last year that highlight why rural optometry is such an incredible opportunity. We hosted multiple Beyond City Limits events for 4th-year Optometry students, aiming to raise awareness about the many professional and personal benefits of practicing in rural communities. 


A group of people smiling in a room with framed art on the wall. The atmosphere is friendly and casual. Tables have glasses and papers.
Minister of Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson (centre), spoke with students on the importance of rural practice and the opportunities it provides for young professionals.

A major highlight of these events was having the Honourable Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs, join us in Waterloo and deliver an inspiring talk. For many students, it was their first time meeting a Minister, and she did a wonderful job connecting with them, encouraging involvement in professional associations after graduation, and inspiring them to give back to their communities. Her presence reinforced the importance of rural practice and the opportunities it provides for young professionals, a mission at the heart of Beyond City Limits.


At the OAO Symposium, we’re excited to continue this momentum. Beyond City Limits will have a booth on Friday, and we encourage attendees, especially students and new grads, to swing by to learn more about rural optometry opportunities and meet our team. We’ll be sharing insights from our events, discussing career paths, and showcasing the unique lifestyle and professional rewards of practicing outside urban centers.


We can’t wait to connect with optometrists, students, and thought leaders in Ottawa for three days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.

 
 
 

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