Look who’s talking – Rachael Rose

Following on from their successes at the Valli awards in Elland in November we have interviewed our winners. Here we would like to introduce Rachael Rose, winner of the Kamal Aftab Award For Professional Excellence. Rachael is a dispensing optician and the manager of Valli Opticians in Honley and Meltham.

Valli                        How did you feel when you won your award and where is it now?

Rachael Rose     I felt very proud to have been nominated for this award. Kamal was my dear friend, so to win an award which is dedicated to his memory was truly an honour.

Valli                       What’s the one accomplishment you’re most proud of and Why?

Rachael Rose     I feel very proud of my degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing. I didn’t go to college when I left school so I was surprised when I was accepted onto the DO course based on my experience working in Optics. I worked exceptionally hard for 3 years, working full time and studying at the same time. Thankfully, it paid off when I qualified in 2012 with a 2:1 honours degree.

Valli                        If you had only one word to describe yourself, what would it be?

Rachael Rose      erm….I think I would describe myself as ‘thoughtful’

Valli                         What’s your passion?

Rachael Rose      Animals but particularly dogs!

Valli                         If you were an animal what would you be?

Rachael Rose      Well….I think it would be fun to be a dog for the day. Dogs have an amazing zest for life, it would be fun to experience that level of enthusiasm over something as simple as a squeaky toy!

Valli                        Who do you admire the most?

Rachael Rose        I think I would have to say that I admire my parents the most. They really struggled financially when my sister and I were young. I can quite honestly say though, that I had the best childhood ever and my sister and I never wanted for anything despite their hardships. They got married when they were 16 & 19 years old and are still happily married now nearly 33 years later. They’re fabulous!

Valli Opticians is located on Westgate in the centre of Honley. It was one of the three original Valli practices and provides first class eye-care services to the local community. The practice stocks an extensive range of designer and non branded frames and lenses to suit all tastes and budgets.