The June 2026 edition of Out of Sight, the official Retina South Africa newsletter, brings together inspiring stories, important advocacy updates, and exciting opportunities to support individuals living with vision loss and retinal conditions.

As we move into the winter months, this edition highlights the strength of our community and the collective effort to raise awareness, drive research, and improve accessibility across South Africa.

An Inspiring Camino Journey for Vision Loss Awareness

One of the key highlights this month is Carine Fraser’s Camino journey, where she will walk 258km of the Camino Frances while living with vision loss.

This remarkable journey is not only a personal challenge but also a powerful fundraising and awareness campaign for retinal conditions. Supporters are encouraged to take part by purchasing personalised ribbons with messages of encouragement or in honour of loved ones.

Carine’s story is a reminder that vision loss does not define what is possible, and every step she takes helps raise awareness for the visually impaired community.

Know Your Rights: Accessible Communications

This month’s newsletter also highlights important developments in accessibility and disability rights.

The ICASA Code for Persons with Disabilities Regulations places legal obligations on broadcasters and mobile providers to improve accessibility. This includes services like audio description, which supports people with visual impairments in accessing media content.

Understanding these rights is essential in promoting inclusive access to information and communication for all South Africans. 

Upcoming AGM & Members’ Meeting

Retina South Africa is proud to host its Annual General Meeting and Members’ Meeting on 25 July in Midrand.

This year’s keynote speaker is Professor John Marshall, a globally respected leader in ophthalmology whose work has significantly advanced vision care worldwide.

This event offers members an opportunity to:

• Connect with the Retina SA community
• Learn from leading experts
• Stay informed about developments in retinal research

Swing for Sight Golf Day – Make an Impact

The annual Dis‑Chem Foundation & Retina South Africa Golf Day will take place on 1 September 2026 at the Royal Johannesburg Golf Club.

This flagship fundraising event brings together:

• Business leaders
• Sponsors
• Supporters of vision research

Funds raised help support:

• Research into retinal degenerative conditions
• Patient support services
• Awareness and education initiatives

Participants can book four-balls or sponsor holes while contributing to a meaningful cause. 

To book a four-ball or secure a manned hole sponsorship, please
contact events@retinasa.org.za

Save Our Sight Campaign

The Save Our Sight Campaign continues to drive awareness and funding for retinal research and support services.

This initiative helps:

• Fund critical research
• Provide support for individuals and families
• Increase awareness of retinal conditions

Participants also stand a chance to win monthly prizes, making it an engaging way to contribute to a life-changing cause. 

Latest Retinal Realities Podcast Episodes

The Retinal Realities Podcast continues to share insightful conversations and real-life experiences from the visually impaired community.

Recent episodes include:

• Travelling with a guide dog – Practical advice for navigating local and international travel
• Umsizi Reader app – Exploring innovative technology improving accessibility across all 11 official languages

These episodes highlight how innovation and lived experience are shaping a more accessible future. 

Sponsored Feature: Nurture Vision

This month’s newsletter also includes a sponsored advertisement from Nurture Vision, focusing on a nutritional supplement approach to managing Dry Eye Disease.

The feature explores how targeted nutrition can support:

• Tear quality
• Eye health
• Ocular surface function

This reflects growing interest in holistic approaches to eye care. 

For more info on our full product range visit the Nurture Vision website at: https://nurturevision.co.za/

Get Involved and Make a Difference

Every initiative featured in this month’s newsletter highlights the importance of community involvement, awareness, and support.

Whether it’s:

• Supporting Carine’s Camino journey
• Attending upcoming events
• Contributing to fundraising campaigns

You can play a role in helping Retina South Africa move closer to a future where vision loss can be prevented, treated, or cured.