A Specsavers Johnstone team member is celebrating after graduating with first-class honours in optometry and progressing into a new role as a graduate optometrist.
Gabby Baleva graduated from Glasgow Caledonian University in June 2026 after completing her optometry degree.
She joined Specsavers Johnstone in November 2025, shortly after the store opened. She first started her Specsavers career at the Leith store in Edinburgh in 2021.
Gabby is now completing her pre-registration training at the Johnstone store, where she will continue developing her clinical knowledge and practical skills while supporting the eye health of the local community.
Gabby said: “I’m extremely proud to have graduated with first-class honours and to have progressed into my new role as a graduate optometrist at Specsavers Johnstone.
“Being able to help people is one of the things I enjoy most about working in optometry. It makes me happy knowing that people can leave the practice feeling reassured, cared for and confident that their eye health is being looked after.
“My main goal will always be to continue improving my clinical knowledge and excelling in what I do. After completing my pre-registration training, I’d love to undertake the Independent Prescribing course and the Medical Retina course at Glasgow Caledonian University.
“I’d like to thank my fiancé, Scott, my family and all my past and current Specsavers colleagues, who have always supported me and believed that I would succeed.”
Glenn Dickson, ophthalmic director at Specsavers Johnstone, said: “We’re all incredibly proud of Gabby and everything she has achieved. Graduating with first-class honours is a fantastic accomplishment and reflects the hard work, dedication and enthusiasm she has shown throughout her studies.
“Gabby is a valued member of our team and is passionate about providing the highest standard of care to our customers. We’re delighted to support her as she takes the next step in her career and continues developing as an optometrist.
“We’re committed to helping our colleagues develop their skills and achieve their ambitions, which ultimately enables us to provide the very best possible care for the Johnstone community.”
Photo: Gabby Baleva is celebrating after graduating with first-class honours in optometry from Glasgow Caledonian University
Photo Credit: Specsavers Johnstone