As a visually impaired multi-medalist athlete preparing for his 5th Paralympics at 39 years old, para-athlete Trésor Makunda understands the importance of appearance. He emphasized the need for a standout and festive pair of glasses for his upcoming competitions in Paris, especially since he is scrutinized by the public, cameras, and spectators.
To fulfill his wish, two creative eyewear bachelor students named Léna and Sébastien, along with their internship supervisors, designed and handcrafted a pair of glasses tailored to Makunda’s needs. The champion had specified that he wanted something elegant and lightweight, different from the classic sports glasses he typically used during training sessions with one of his sponsors, Optic 2000.
The collaboration between the students and Makunda resulted in a unique and eye-catching pair of glasses that not only serve a functional purpose but also reflect the athlete’s personality and style as he competes in his upcoming Paralympic events. The design process showcased the creativity and innovation present in the field of optical design, highlighting how personalized solutions can meet the specific needs of individual athletes.
During his visit to Institut Supérieur d’Optique (ISO) in Paris, Makunda expressed his desire for a pair of glasses that would catch the eye. As an athlete who relies heavily on visual cues to navigate through life’s challenges, it was important to him that his glasses were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.
The students took this into consideration when they began designing Makunda’s custom glasses. They worked closely with him to ensure that their creation was both practical and stylish. After much deliberation and experimentation, they finally came up with a design that would make Makunda stand out on the track.
Makunda was thrilled with the final product. He praised the students’ creativity and attention to detail in crafting such an exceptional piece of eyewear.
“These are truly one-of-a-kind,” he said during a recent interview with our team.
“I’ve never seen anything like them before,” he added.
Makunda believes that these glasses will give him an edge over his competitors on the track. With their unique design, they will help him stand out from other athletes who may rely on more traditional sports gear.
“These glasses are perfect for me,” said Makunda.
“They’re elegant, lightweight, and different from anything I’ve ever worn before.”
