Village Optical has been protecting and preserving eyesight for over 30 years. We’re located in the St Vital neighbourhood but serve patients from all over Winnipeg and the rest of Manitoba!
We’re especially proud that the majority of our referrals come from existing patients. It means the world to know our patients trust us enough to recommend us to their friends and family (but if you want to recommend us to your enemies, too, we don’t mind).
As a locally-owned small business, your support also helps us make meaningful differences to more community members. This means we can further our goal of sharing optical expertise and looking after the vision of countless families. Thank you!
Dr. Dillon graduated on the Dean’s Honour list from the Doctor of Optometry program at the University of Waterloo in 2006. During her final year, she completed an internship at a leading eye disease referral centre in Alabama. During her studies, she had extensive exposure to many ocular diseases as well as pre and post surgical care for LASIK and cataract surgery.
Dr. Dillon was born and raised in Winnipeg. She began her University career at the University of Winnipeg in 1999, where she completed her undergraduate requirements as a student of highest distinction.
After completing her optometry studies in Waterloo, Ontario, Dr. Dillon was excited to return to Winnipeg where she joined Village Optical in 2006. She enjoys being able to provide comprehensive care for the entire family in a friendly environment.
Dr. Dillon is known for providing thorough, compassionate care in a fun and relaxing environment, especially for her youngest patients. She looks forward to continuing to build relationships with current patients and meeting new patients.
Dr. Dillon was President of the Manitoba Association of Optometrists from 2018-2020. She was an elected member of Council from 2012-2021. She still maintains an active role in the Association, chairing committees and advocating for better vision care for all Manitobans. Dr. Dillon also volunteers her time providing eye care at Siloam Mission to those in need. Recently, she has also been working as a COVID-19 immunizer to help keep Manitobans protected.
When she is not busy sharing her passion for eye care, she enjoys keeping active with her husband (a fellow optometrist) and two boys. Dr. Dillon also likes to play hockey and run half marathons. Keep an eye out for her in the community jogging with her dog, Barkley!
Dr. Cam Livingstone, Optometrist
Dr. Livingstone was born and raised in Winnipeg. He began in the optical industry in 1986, working on the front lines of customer service in optical stores. His experience working as an optician included optical dispensing in optical boutiques, corporate chains, department stores, individually owned dispensaries, and finishing lab work. His work as an ophthalmic dispenser took him from Manitoba to BC, Ontario, and even Sydney, Australia.
In the mid-nineties, he returned to university and graduated with his Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Waterloo in 2002. After working as an associate optometrist, he started Eye Prism Optical in 2005. In 2013, he partnered with Village Optical and has been a proud member of our amazing team ever since.
Dr. Livingstone has been a member of the St. Vital Rotary Club since 2006 and began his second term as club president in 2019. Lately, Dr. Livingstone has taken up the hobby of learning to fly gliders and is working towards his ultra-light aircraft pilot’s license.
Dr. Livingstone enjoys doing primary care optometry for patients aged 6 months to 100 years.
Dr. Erin Loewen, Optometrist
Dr. Loewen was born and raised in Winnipeg. She graduated from the University of Manitoba with a B.Sc. with Distinction in 2006. During her studies, she was involved in molecular biology research in the Department of Microbiology, and her education continued at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry.
Dr. Loewen completed an internship in Mobile, Alabama, with an emphasis on oculoplastics, neuro-ophthalmology, pre- and post-operative cataract management, glaucoma, and diseases of the retina and vitreous. She graduated from the University of Waterloo with her Doctor of Optometry degree in 2010 on the Dean’s Honours List.
Following her studies, Dr. Loewen returned to Winnipeg and joined Village Optical in 2010. She enjoys providing primary care optometry, with a special interest in pediatrics and diabetic eye care.
Dr. Loewen chairs the Children’s Vision Committee of the Manitoba Association of Optometrists. Additionally, she was a co-author of the Canadian Association of Optometrists 2017 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Optometric Care of the Patient with Diabetes.
Dr. Loewen is interested in providing eye care to those in need, which has taken her to communities in Mexico, Guatemala, and Jamaica on vision missions. Additionally, she volunteers her time at Siloam Mission, providing eye exams to Winnipeg’s less fortunate. She was named Optometrist of the Year in 2018 by the Manitoba Association of Optometrists.
Outside of eye care, Dr. Loewen enjoys staying active, reading, and travelling. A former rower, she previously served as Secretary on the Board of Directors for the Winnipeg Rowing Club. She is always happy to discuss travel adventures with her patients!
Dr. Cody van Dijk, Optometrist
Dr. van Dijk graduated from the University of Waterloo with his Doctor of Optometry degree on the Dean’s Honours List and was voted Valedictorian by his peers. Prior to that, he completed an undergraduate degree at the University of Manitoba and received the Governor General’s Silver Medal upon graduation.
Born and raised in Winnipeg, Dr. van Dijk looks forward to meeting new patients and catching up with old ones. He enjoys incorporating the latest vision care technologies into a personalized care and treatment plan. He particularly values the importance of patient education, taking the time to thoroughly explain diagnoses and ensure patients are empowered to make informed decisions regarding their ocular health.
Further to this interest, Dr. van Dijk is the Co-Chair of the Manitoba Association of Optometrists Public Relations Committee. He enjoys the opportunity to educate Manitobans about the importance of ocular health and its close relationship to overall health and well-being.
In his spare time, Dr. van Dijk enjoys running, reading, and spending time at the lake with his wife, Haley.
Dr. Gina Berg, Optometrist
Dr. Berg graduated Cum Laude from the Illinois College of Optometry (ICO). She was a member of the Tomb and Key Honors Society, Beta Sigma Kappa Honors Fraternity, and was awarded both clinical and academic Dean’s List honours.
During her studies at ICO, Dr. Berg was trained in all aspects of optometry, from pediatrics and contact lenses at the University of Kentucky to primary care and ocular disease at the VA hospital in Columbia, South Carolina. Prior to her optometric studies, Dr. Berg received her Bachelors of Science from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Born and raised in Chicago, Dr. Berg is new to Winnipeg, where she moved to join her husband—a fellow optometrist. She is looking forward to becoming more familiar with the city and exploring other areas of Canada.
Dr. Berg’s main interests are primary care and managing/treating ocular diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and many others. She is happy to provide care to patients of all ages for any of their visual needs.
In her free time, Dr. Berg enjoys travelling, trying new restaurants, and spending time with friends and family.
Dr. Allison Van Dyck, Optometrist
Dr. Van Dyck was born and raised in Winnipeg and completed her undergraduate degree in Science at the University of Manitoba. She graduated with distinction from Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, Oregon in 2017. During her time in at Pacific, she was a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa Honours Society and AMIGOS Eye Care, a non-profit outreach organization that provides eye care to underserved populations around the world. Dr. Van Dyck had the privilege of serving on one of the AMIGOS trips.
As part of her Optometry degree, Dr. Van Dyck completed 4 externships in the United States including: two primary care clinics – one in Fargo, ND and the other at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland; an ocular disease co-management facility in Virginia; and, a paediatric focused clinic at Pacific University. She returned to Winnipeg in 2017 and is passionate about providing comprehensive and compassionate care to all her patients.
In her spare time, she enjoys kayaking, walking her dogs, cooking, gardening and spending time with family and friends.
Dr. Michelle Georgi, Optometrist
Dr. Michelle Georgi graduated from the University of Waterloo in 1983 and has practised in Winnipeg ever since. She and Dr. Murray formed Village Optical in 2001 and have grown a practice that strives to offer complete vision care for the whole family in a caring, friendly, and affordable way.
Dr. Georgi has a particular interest in children’s vision and is on the Children’s Vision Committee of Manitoba. She also sits on the National Children’s Vision Initiative Committee and is a former President of the Manitoba Association of Optometrists. She was named Manitoba Optometrist of the Year in 2015.
Dr. Georgi is retiring as of the end of 2019. She wanted to share this letter with her patients. She will be missed.
Dear Patients,
I hope this letter finds you well. I’d like to share some new developments at Village Optical.
It is with mixed emotions that I announce my retirement from optometry at the end of 2019. I have had the honour and privilege of looking after your vision needs, and I would like to thank all of you for your continued trust and confidence. It has meant a great deal to me that you have made Village Optical your place for optometric care, and I have so enjoyed getting to know all of you! I have always looked forward to each day, catching up on your day-to-day lives, and helping you achieve the best vision you can possibly have. It has been such a pleasure.
My youngest son just transitioned to a new dentist, and he commented on how he missed the comforting feeling of knowing your caregiver is aware of your history and past issues—and of having to build that relationship anew. This is why I am writing today; I would like to assure all of you that your patient charts will stay at Village Optical, and the same wonderful staff will continue to greet you and your family when you arrive!
I would like to introduce the optometrist that is taking over my part of the practice. Dr.Cody van Dijk graduated from the University of Waterloo. He was on the Dean’s honour list and his class Valedictorian. He is a kind, thoughtful practitioner who takes the time to listen to your concerns and carefully explain treatment options. Dr. van Dijk is newly married and speaks English and French. You will be in great hands!
One of the many great things about Village Optical is that we have 6 optometrists providing care. I want to assure you that we can address any issue you may have in a timely way, so that if your optometrist is not available, or if there is an emergency, we will be happy to have another optometrist look after your needs. The newest member of the team will be our associate Dr. Brandon Bzovey, who joined us this August. Dr. Bzovey grew up in Winnipeg and recently graduated from the University of Waterloo. Welcome, Dr. Bzovey! French eye exams are available with Drs. van Dijk, Loewen, and Dillon. Dr. Loewen is the chair of the Children’s Vision Committee of Manitoba. Dr. Tanya Dillon is the President of the Manitoba Association of Optometrists. Dr. Livingstone and Dr. Murray have a special interest in complex contact lens fittings. All practitioners see patients of all ages and provide the full scope of care, including glaucoma treatment, cataract assessment, contact lenses, pediatric care, and the rapidly growing area of myopia prevention/control. The office hours remain the same, and we will continue to offer appointments on Wednesday evenings and most Saturdays.
Once again, thank you for allowing me to provide your vision care over the past 36 years! It has been my absolute pleasure.
Kind regards,
Dr. Michelle Georgi, OD
Dr. Gerard Murray, Optometrist
Dr. Murray grew up in rural Manitoba, and after graduating from the University of Waterloo, practised in Portage la Prairie for 26 years. He joined the team at Village Optical in 2001. He still finds the eye care profession rewarding and particularly enjoys the challenge of specialized contact lens fittings, including those for keratoconus and nightwear orthokeratology.
Our doctors are happy to see any of Dr. Georgi or Dr. Murray’s former patients!
Je suis bilingue! I have been part of the Village Optical team since 2012, however I love it so much that it doesn’t feel like work! I enjoy coming to the office everyday to work alongside our wonderful team and knowledgeable doctors! When I am not at the office, I enjoy spending my time with my family and pets, watching football, spending time outdoors and traveling.
Angie, Director of Patient Care
I have worked in the optical industry for over 20 years. I enjoy helping our patients with all their contact lens needs.
Janice, Eyewear Consultant
1986 was my start in the optical industry. In 2007 I obtained my optician’s license from NAIT Institute. My passion is people and helping them with all their optical needs. I love working at Village Optical, they are part of my family.
Colleen, Insurance Coordinator
The saying goes “it takes a village” and I truly believe that. Here at Village Optical the level of expertise compassion and variety is second to none! When I am not with my “Village Family”, I enjoy spending time with my family at the cottage.
Ethan, Certified Optometric Assistant
My favorite part about working at Village Optical is talking and laughing with patients. Seeing them leave with a smile makes my day.
Heather, Ocular Hygienist
I moved to Winnipeg in 2019 from B.C. and started working at Village Optical shortly after. I love working in a clinic that feels like family! In my spare time I enjoy reading, hot yoga and enjoying the sun.
Carly, Licensed Optician
I have been in the optical industry since 2015. Having found my passion, I quickly started my schooling at NAIT to become a Licensed Optician.
When I’m not at work, my free time includes Archery, Belgian Bowling and playing Dungeons and Dragons.
Ethel, Patient Care Technician
I have worked in the optical industry for 10 years. Now I am on the side of the clinical team, learning new things. I am glad and thankful to be part of the Village Optical family.
Kirsten, Ocular Hygienist
I have worked in the optical industry since 2015 and thrive on providing great patient care.
I am eager to learn and have studied neuroscience. On my downtime, I enjoy making Indigenous beadwork and spend time with my dogs Louanna and Bowie and my cat Peej.
Lilly, Eyewear Consultant
I moved to Canada with my family in 2012 from the United Kingdom, after working in customer service rolls for over 25yrs which included hairdressing and retail management I moved into the optical industry in 2017 and have loved it! Working at Village optical is like working with family, everyone is so knowledgeable and happy to share that knowledge with colleagues and patients alike.
In my downtime I love to create treasures with leathers, furs and antler.
Mikayla , Eyewear Consultant
I moved from southern Manitoba to Winnipeg. It has always been my intention to help patients find glasses that provide comfort and boost confidence while still providing a good optical experience. After work, you can find me reading, enjoying the sun and eating food!
Amy, Eyewear Consultant
My journey with Village Optical has been nothing short of amazing. As my grandmother wisely said, “Find a job you love, and you never have to work a day in your life”. Here at Village Optical, I’ve found that perfect balance.
I look forward to sharing my passion for eyewear with you and helping you find the ideal pair of glasses that not only enhance your vision but reflect your unique style!
Bethany, Patient Care Technician
I particularly enjoy working here at Village Optical because of my amazing co-workers and the patients I get to meet daily. Being here has brought out my passion for helping others.
In my spare time, I enjoy being around my cats Lucy and Oliver.
Coralie, Patient Care Technician
Hi there! I enjoy working at Village Optical because of the many opportunities to interact with the patients. I love making people feel comfortable and welcomed.
In my free time, you can find me with my dog or doing anything creative!
Sanduni, Eyewear Consultant
I have been working in the optical field since 2021 and I enjoy reading, traveling and hiking in my spare time. I love working at Village Optical and hope to take care of the optical needs of our community.
Val Weide, Eyewear Consultant
Val Weide has been in the optical industry 40 years. We know, it’s hard to believe! Her only regret is that she didn’t start working at Village Optical before 2004. She loves the connections she has made over the years and is very proud of the hand she had in helping grow Village Optical. You can find our retired office manager, now very part time eyeglass picker on the tennis courts or riding her bike in her spare time.
Karen, Eyewear Consultant
I work part-time at Village Optical and look forward to coming to work to help our patients and see my awesome coworkers.
Mary, Certified Optometric Assistant
It is an honour working at Village Optical. What I enjoy the most is working together with my colleagues to make sure patients feel happy with their visit. I became a Canadian Certified Optometric Assistant in 2020.
Thora, Eyewear Consultant
I look forward to being part of a great team and using my many years of optical experience to look after all our patients’ eyewear needs.
Patti, Eyewear Consultant
I have been working in the optical industry for 40 years plus. What I love the most is helping patients find an amazing frame to complement their look.
Tehreem, Patient Care Technician
As my very first part-time job, especially here at Village Optical, I would say I am enjoying every moment! Everyday I look forward to helping patients in every way possible and making them feel welcomed. Alongside that, I enjoy collaborating with my coworkers and learn new skills each and every day.
Makayla, Eyewear Consultant
I started my optical journey in 2022 and shortly after completed the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant course through NAIT.
I enjoy working alongside the Village Optical team and look forward to helping patients!
Leah, Patient Care Technician
I have been in the optical industry since 2021 and became a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant in 2022.
I enjoy working at Village Optical and look forward to my future here!
Giving Back
We are passionate about eye care in our community and around the world. Village Optical participated in the World Sight Day Challenge. We were even awarded silver in the World Sight Day Challenge of 2019!
In addition, our team of Optometrists volunteer their time and provide eye exams at Siloam Mission.
We also accept donations for different charities each month. Explore our charitable initiatives, and find out how you can get involved!
Located in St. Vital
Find us off the intersection of St. Mary’s Road and Dakota Street, near Dakota Family Foods and Jolly Mug Restaurant.