Moorfields’ Stars of 2025 

There were over 900 nominations received this year for Moorfields’ Stars, showing colleagues’ passion and dedication in providing excellent eye care and innovations in research - changing patients’ lives.

All of the finalists were invited to attend the award ceremony that took place at The Honourable Artillery Company in Moorgate, close to Moorfields Eye Hospital.

We were delighted to have supported two awards this year, the Moorfields Eye Charity champion award, which was presented by Louise Robertshaw, chair of the fundraising and communications committee at the event, and the innovation and improvement award, presented by Robert Dufton, chief executive.

Dr Louise Wood, chair of Moorfields Eye Charity, also shared a few words.

The charity champion award is our opportunity to thank staff and volunteers for their support whether through fundraising activities, being an ambassador for the charity, showcasing what we do or helping in another way.

The winner:

Professor Sajjad Ahmad, consultant ophthalmic surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London and professor of corneal regeneration at UCL Institute of Ophthalmology

Saj has consistently gone above and beyond to support Moorfields Eye Charity. He was involved in the charity’s fundraising appeal last winter, giving up his time to help support the campaign as well as agreeing to be filmed for the charity’s social media channels.

He has also been supportive of the charity’s philanthropy workshops, sharing with colleagues his own experiences of engaging with the charity’s donors, as well as helping to make introductions and advocate for the charity’s work with his networks.

The finalists:

Clare Wills, Oriel communications and engagement officer, Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology

Clare is incredibly supportive and is always offering opportunities to promote the charity’s work. Nothing is ever too much for Clare and she is always willing to help with queries. In recent years she has volunteered at Eye to Eye, giving up her Sunday to man a half-way point stand and support our amazing walkers.

John Pearson, volunteer for Friends of Moorfields

John went above and beyond at Eye to Eye this June. He supported a visually impaired walker on the 5-mile route, who unfortunately sustained an injury partway through. John encouraged and assisted the walker all the way to the finish line, giving up his whole day to make sure they were looked after.

This award recognises pioneering innovations and improvements which benefit Moorfields’ patients.

The winner:

Theatre team (St George’s)

The team consistently demonstrate efficiency, effectiveness, and a strong safety culture, which is reflected in their outstanding turnover times. Their ability to adapt to varying demands while maintaining high clinical standards is truly impressive. A testament to their skill and collaborative spirit was their recent contribution to the hospital’s first rare and complex osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis procedure – a landmark achievement for Moorfields. From efficiency to pioneering surgical support, the team consistently exemplifies excellence, fosters an inclusive workplace and equitable care, embodying our shared values.

The finalists:

Advice and refer team, Single Point of Access (trust wide) 

This multidisciplinary team spans many sites and services. As a result of their collaboration and team working, they have delivered extensive benefits for our patients, such as waiting list reduction, patients being directed to the right service first time, and 46% of referrals de-escalated where not urgent, allowing free slots for those who need it most.

Clinical trials pharmacy team (City Road)

The team consistently demonstrates excellence in supporting complex clinical trials, ensuring patient safety and maintaining regulatory compliance under demanding conditions. Committed to continuous improvement, they have streamlined protocols and services to improve patient access to innovative therapies, increased efficiency, reduced delays, and improved accuracy across clinical research operations. Their commitment to professional development and cross-team collaboration has been a vital force in driving research forward, exemplifying the highest standards.

The incredible work of every nominee has been an inspiration and makes Moorfields and the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology the amazing partnership it is.

Congratulations to all the finalists and everyone who was nominated!