Dr. Cheryl Bayer is a dedicated Optometrist and founder of Concordia Eye Centre. She graduated from the University of Waterloo School of Optometry in 2008 and holds a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Winnipeg. Her optometry journey took her to clinical placements across North America, including Baltimore, Nova Scotia, and Ontario, where she gained valuable experience in primary care and ocular disease. After a few years practicing on the East Coast, she returned home to Winnipeg to open Concordia Eye Centre in 2010 – a practice she continues to grow with care and purpose. Dr. Bayer’s contributions to the field have earned her multiple accolades, such as the Optometrist of the Year Award from the Manitoba Association of Optometrists, the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and a 50th Anniversary Alumni of Honour Award from the University of Waterloo. She served for many years on the Manitoba Association of Optometrists Council—including a term as Registrar—and remains active in the profession through student mentorship and clinical supervision. Her happy place? Surrounded by her family, soaking up sunshine at the lake and keeping up with her busy kids!

Since graduating from Indiana University School of Optometry in 2012, Dr. Samborski has been committed to helping patients protect and improve their vision. Before optometry school, he earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Winnipeg. His optometric training took him across the U.S., where he gained hands-on experience in ocular disease, primary care, pediatrics, and low vision through externships in Indiana, Nebraska, and Florida. He also enjoyed volunteering at Special Olympics events and traveling to Mexico with VOSH to deliver care where it’s needed most. Dr. Samborski is passionate about patient education and strives to make every visit a positive, comfortable experience. He also mentors optometry students as a clinical supervisor with the University of Waterloo. Outside of work, he’s happiest spending time at the lake, teeing off on the golf course, or relaxing with his family and his pup—who’s probably the real boss at home!

Dr. Massicotte is a friendly and passionate Optometrist who’s been helping patients see clearly since graduating from the University of Waterloo School of Optometry in 2019. Prior to her studies at the University of Waterloo, she also completed a Bachelor of Science at Université de St. Boniface. She’s always had a heart for community and adventure, which took her to Ecuador with VOSH to provide eye care to those in need, and into student leadership roles where she helped organize meaningful events like “Dining in the Dark.” These days, Dr. Massicotte is all about patient-centered care. Whether it’s your first exam or your tenth, she’s here to make it comfortable and informative. Outside the clinic, she enjoys time with family and friends, and is always trying to keep up with her four-legged sidekick, who’s got great vision and even better vibes!

With a sharp eye for detail and over ten years in the industry, Kristen is a dual-licensed optician and our clinic manager — meaning she’s the one keeping everything moving, improving, and evolving behind the scenes. She has a knack for finding the perfect frame for every face and loves the challenge of complex contact lens fits. Kristen’s always hunting down the latest in eyewear and eyecare tech, meeting with reps, and making sure our frame boards stay fresh and on-trend. Off the clock, she’s with her family, traveling, catching a Bomber game, or lounging on her sunny backyard deck — preferably with a cold drink in hand.

Dannah is a dual-licensed optician who’s just as passionate about a perfect lens fit as she is about perfect nails. Originally from the Philippines, she’s been calling Canada home since she was 15 — and yes, her car Harvey (a Honda HR-V) is basically her firstborn. Known for her infectious laugh and magnetic personality, Dannah brings energy and joy to every patient interaction. She loves teaching people how to wear contacts and celebrates their success like it’s her own. She’s also a bit of a glasses-repair wizard — if it’s fixable, Dannah’s your girl. When she’s not at work, you’ll find her running, swimming, or whipping up her famous sangria — just don’t say we didn’t warn you.

A former Naval Reservist turned Certified Optometric Assistant and Vision Therapy graduate, Filomena brings over 25 years of experience in the optical industry. She’s a true multitasker who thrives on busy days and good teamwork. Whether she’s helping at the front desk or guiding patients through pre-testing, she brings a steady hand and a positive vibe to everything she does. At home, she’s just as active — biking, watching Bomber games, and spending time with her husband and two boys. Next hobby on deck? Crochet — and she’s all in.

With a background in Nutritional Science and over a decade as a beauty advisor, Lara brings a natural eye for style and a passion for people to our optical team. Though new to the industry, she’s already hooked — especially when it comes to helping patients find frames that match their look and personality. She effortlessly bonds with patients and has a real knack for forming genuine connections, making every glasses-picking moment feel personal and fun. When she’s not styling specs, she’s whipping up recipes with her own twist, crafting, reading mysteries, or hanging with her hubby and their four-pet dream team.

Ashton is one of the friendly faces you’ll see at our front desk or during your pre-testing before you see the doctor. She made the leap from hospitality to healthcare in 2020 and hasn’t looked back. Her easygoing nature helps put even the most nervous patients at ease.  Ashton caught the travel bug early thanks to yearly family road trips through 7 provinces and 20 U.S. states — and she’s now visited 15 countries on her own. She’s the oldest of three, even if her younger brothers now have a height advantage. In her downtime, she’s usually deep into a fantasy novel or rewatching Friends and Sex and the City — because some stories never get old.

Sydney is the first smiling face you’ll see when you walk through our doors. With an advanced degree in psychology and a background supporting individuals with dementia and behavioral disabilities, she brings patience, compassion, and a great sense of calm to our front desk. Though she’s new to the optical field, she’s passionate about creating a positive, supportive experience for every patient. Outside of work, Sydney’s all about beach days, road trips, walks, and game nights with friends and family. Her next big goal? Learning a new language — Spanish, Korean, or ASL are all in the running!