Meet Alysha Law. Advocating for the legally blind to connect them with technology that allows them to actually see.

The Career Focus wage subsidy program created a seamless transition from my university studies to starting my career. It enabled me to gain invaluable knowledge and skills well beyond my years.

Photo of Alysha Law with quoteRevolutionary technology that mimics the human eye is allowing the legally blind to actually see.

Name: Alysha Law
Title: Vision Advocate
Organization: eSight
Background: Biomedical Devices, Biotechnology

 

I am most passionate about… universal accessibility. I firmly believe in the principle of equity – enabling individuals to access their potential through education, employment and personal growth. My passions correlate well with eSight’s mission: Everyone deserves to see. Through eSight, I am fortunate enough to be a part of a social mission deeply rooted in accessibility and helping others.

I chose a career in biotech because… I am extremely interested in the way the field uses biology to create innovative solutions. I was drawn towards eSight specifically because it develops innovative technology to serve humanity and level the playing field for those with low vision.

I am most proud about… spearheading what has now become eSight’s Affordability Initiative. It all started through a relationship with a seven-year-old legally blind boy, who needed eSight’s technology to help him complete daily tasks. Through research I was able to find external sources, and other creative funding solutions, so the family did not have to pay out of pocket. My efforts in advocating for this individual have now been scaled and replicated into eSight’s Affordability Initiative, allowing more individuals to access our life-changing technology, while still maintaining a sustainable business that continues to invest in groundbreaking research.

What’s the best part about working in biotech? The genuine impact biotechnology can have on lives. I love being a part of a field that is finding solutions to a human need. Having the opportunity to see how eSight’s technology has helped open up doors for low-vision individuals, has been a fulfilling experience.

How has wage subsidy impacted your career? The Career Focus wage subsidy program created a seamless transition from my university studies to starting my career. It enabled me to gain invaluable knowledge and skills well beyond my years.

To other recent graduates I would say… if you are passionate about something, be fearless. Find programs like BioTalent Canada’s Career Focus Program; they will give you the opportunity to not only accelerate your transition from university studies to the workplace, but also to grow and develop your career long-term.

Most-admired scientist: Sanford Greenberg, the founder of End Blindness 2020. He is a visionary that went blind at the age of nineteen and aims to end blindness by 2020. He is passionate, driven, and selfless. All traits that I admire and hope to further develop in myself.

Favourite pastimes: Creative writing, playing guitar, and spending time with family and friends.

Favourite Book: There are so many to choose from! If I had to pick, it would either be The Giver by Lois Lowry or Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick.

Favourite destination: Santorini – their food, culture, and beaches create an incredibly enriching experience.