Jan. 15, 2025 — Renowned tennis icon, entrepreneur, and advocate Venus Williams is set to deliver a keynote interview at Vision Expo East 2025, set to take place Feb. 19-22 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. Williams will speak on Friday, Feb. 21, from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. on the Main Stage.

Sports broadcaster Kelly Tilghman will moderate the keynote, titled “Cultivating Innovation in Business.” Williams will discuss her journey as the most decorated tennis player in Olympic history, her path to becoming a successful business owner, and her advocacy for women’s empowerment and equality. Her experience living with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease affecting the eyes and other parts of the body, adds a personal perspective to her understanding of eye health.

Williams’ achievements include seven Grand Slam titles and five Wimbledon championships. Beyond tennis, she has made her mark as an entrepreneur, founding businesses such as V Starr and Happy Viking. She is also a New York Times bestselling author and an executive producer of the Academy Award-winning film "King Richard," which depicts her early tennis career and the influence of her father.

"Venus Williams embodies the vision, drive, and entrepreneurial spirit that is a hallmark of the optical industry," says Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council. "Attendees at Vision Expo East will leave this unforgettable session motivated by Venus's reflections on grit—overcoming challenges, leveraging personal purpose, and innovating to achieve success and drive meaningful change."

To learn more and prep ahead of Vision Expo East, see EB’s BIG Vision Expo East guide.

The Vision Council and RX share that seating for the Venus Williams keynote is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early.