In 1991, Aron Wohl left England with a simple plan: attend Reggae Sunsplash in Jamaica and, if he liked it, stay as long as he felt. Little did the 25-year-old optometrist know that this trip would lead to a life-altering adventure, eventually making Jamaica his home and transforming him into a successful entrepreneur.
At the time, Wohl was fresh out of college and working as an optometrist in the UK. Driven by his passion for reggae, he set his sights on the famous music festival, but he found more than just music. During his visit, he discovered a program allowing him to volunteer as an optometrist at the Foundation for International Self-Help (FISH) Medical, Dental, and Eye Clinic in St Andrew. The opportunity provided him with accommodation, meals, and a small stipend—an arrangement he jokingly described as his introduction to “box food.”
Arriving in April 1991, Wohl immersed himself in both the reggae scene and his volunteer work. After Reggae Sunsplash in July, he and his friends traveled around Jamaica, savoring the local culture. By September, when his friends returned home, Wohl faced a decision: return to the UK or stay in Jamaica. Despite the low pay, he decided to remain, motivated by the island’s vibrant spirit and promising opportunities.
His journey took him to Vision Plus, an optical store in Sovereign Centre, St Andrew, where he worked part-time. The experience exposed him to a different clientele compared to FISH Clinic and sparked his interest in the potential of Jamaica’s optical market. However, Wohl felt unfulfilled and realized he needed a new challenge.
Determined to carve his own path, Wohl planned to open a store in Portmore but eventually opted for a location in the Island Life Centre in New Kingston in April 1999. Despite limited resources, including a tight budget for notifying clients about the move, he managed to launch Eye Q Optical. His first employee, Elsa Figueroa Newland, played a crucial role in managing the store while Wohl focused on his optometry practice.
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The name Eye Q Optical cleverly referenced the term “intelligence quotient” (IQ), and the tagline “The Intelligent Choice” underscored Wohl’s commitment to high-quality eyewear. He sought to elevate the standard of frames and customer service, drawing on his background in fashion frames and his father’s eyewear business in the UK. Eye Q Optical pioneered features like anti-glare lenses and self-fitting frames, distinguishing itself from competitors.
As the business grew, Wohl expanded to larger premises and opened additional stores in Manor Park and Drax Hall. General Manager Carlington Willis, who started as a lab technician, played a key role in the company’s success and was recognized internationally as Manager/Director of the Year in 2022.
Eye Q Optical also embraces its social responsibility by offering free eye tests and eyewear to underprivileged students. With the rise of digital device usage, Wohl anticipates a growing demand for quality eyewear, distinguishing between mass-produced and specialized products.
Despite his achievements, Wohl has one lingering disappointment: not finding the roots reggae he sought in the 1990s. He recalls a memorable but challenging night spent on the pavement after a session with Jah Love sound system. However, he eventually connected with Gabre Selassie, a Rastafarian musician and Augustus Pablo’s understudy, leading to cherished memories of visiting Pablo’s home and experiencing reggae music in its purest form.
Now, celebrating 25 years of Eye Q Optical, Wohl remains dedicated to providing quality service and eyewear, with plans to focus on consolidating and enhancing the clinical side of the business. The journey that began with a reggae festival has evolved into a legacy of excellence in optometry and community service.
