Valli Staff Conference & Awards 2026 – Another Unforgettable Event
Saturday 13th June saw colleagues from across the Valli Group come together for our annual Staff Conference & Awards – one of the highlights of the Valli calendar.
Unlike previous years, which have seen our teams arrive dressed in traditional Indian attire for a Bollywood-themed celebration or don crowns and gowns for a royal extravaganza, this year’s event was a little different. There was no formal theme – because this year, the experience itself was the theme.
The day began in Wrexham, home to one of the manufacturing facilities of our principal lens supplier, Hoya. Valli colleagues were given an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the laboratory, providing a fascinating insight into how patients’ lenses are manufactured from the moment an order is placed in practice.
The tour showcased the incredible innovation, precision and expertise involved in producing high-quality optical lenses. From the early stages of production through to the application of coatings, tints and the final quality checks, the experience highlighted the craftsmanship and technology behind every finished lens.
Alongside the lab tour, the Hoya team delivered a number of engaging presentations, demonstrating why they are recognised globally as leaders in optical technology. The sessions also explored how Hoya’s values align closely with Valli’s own commitment to delivering exceptional patient care and outstanding service.
The conference also featured a thought-provoking and inspiring presentation from optometrist, author and life coach Peter Greedy. Peter delivered a powerful session focused on mindset, communication, professional development and personal growth, leaving colleagues with plenty to reflect upon and apply in practice.
Following a productive and insightful morning, the Valli team travelled to the stunning Carden Park Hotel in Cheshire for an afternoon of team-building activities. The challenges were centred around focus, precision and hitting targets – quite literally! Activities included archery, air rifle shooting and axe throwing, all of which encouraged teamwork, healthy competition and, of course, plenty of laughter.
A special congratulations goes to Team Myself Profilers, whose impressive aim and teamwork secured this year’s team-building title.
As evening arrived, attention turned to one of the most eagerly anticipated parts of the day – the annual Valli Awards. The awards provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contribution made by colleagues and practices across the group throughout the year.
The winners were as follows:
Long Service Awards
- 5 Years – David Leigh, Sanjay Bala, Nazmeen Ahmed
- 10 Years – Kayleigh Buttle
- Front of House Star of the Year – Julie Williams, Valli Honley
- Social Media Branch of the Year – Valli Hull
- Audiology Branch of the Year – Valli Almondbury
- Dispenser of the Year – Hafsa Patel, Valli Blackburn
- Kamal Aftab Optometrist of the Year – Adeela Khan, Valli Cheadle Hulme
- Team Leader of the Year – Serena Mepham, Valli Honley
- Branch of the Year – Valli Wakefield
- Employee of the Year – Ameena Hassan, Valli Lockwood
- Special Recognition Award – Rachael Marlow, Regional Manager
The evening was filled with laughter, emotion and celebration as colleagues cheered on the nominees and winners. The event concluded with live entertainment, plenty of dancing and the chance for everyone to relax and celebrate another successful year for Valli.
Overall, the 2026 Valli Staff Conference & Awards was a tremendous success, combining education, personal development, team building and celebration in equal measure.
A huge thank you goes to the entire team at Hoya for hosting such an exceptional event, and to everyone who contributed to making the day such a memorable occasion.
We are already looking forward to next year’s conference!