Tell us a bit about yourself and how you got into optometry

Hello, I'm Joanna! I’m a full time optometrist just starting my fourth year out at a practice in the inner city area. When I was about 15 years old, I had an eye test with an optometrist who was so friendly, helpful and welcoming that it completely changed my perception of the optical industry. From then on it opened my eyes to a wonderful career opportunity which I currently find myself in! 

In my free time, I also bake cakes and macarons for all the sweet tooths in Sydney! 

How did you get into what you’re doing in your time outside optometry?

It all started during the first COVID lockdown in 2020- everyone was doing a bit of iso-baking and iso-cooking back then. What I really found exciting was that there were so many different and new things I could bake and eat. Each baking experience was more challenging and more fun than the last. 

Personally, I didn’t think my baking was too bad so I took it a step further and started an Instagram page for my bakes where people can order custom cakes and macarons.

Where can we follow you?

You can follow me on my Instagram page @boujeebakessyd!

Tell us about your most memorable experiences

For Lunar New Year last year the design for my CNY macarons proved immensely popular and I may have bit off a bit more than I could chew. I spent 2 full days baking until 3am to get all my orders on time which I don't recommend for anyone haha. After baking 500 or so macaron shells I finally managed to get it all done. I was so happy with the final product so it made it worth it in the end!

 

Do you find it easy to juggle your optometry career and your other passions?

It can be challenging juggling the logistics of baking cakes and macarons around full time work and getting them delivered on time. Luckily for me some of the baked goods can be done over several days so it gives me a bit of breathing space after a long day at work.

Does time away from optometry help you appreciate it more?

I would say so! Baking gives me that creative outlet that I need and optometry keeps me grounded and balanced.

 

Do you have any advice for young optometrists out there who would like to pursue their passion but haven’t quite gotten started?

Take that leap of faith and just do it! Be open minded and manifest your dreams. The best way to learn is through practice and experience :) Good luck!!