The Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award, presented by the Ross Viva Family Foundation in partnership with the MIDO Exhibition in Milano, is proud to announce its global expansion for 2026. Now open to the world’s most prestigious eyewear and fashion design schools, the award is a premier international platform exclusively dedicated to recognizing the next generation of visionary student designers in the optical space.
To apply and learn more about prizes, eligibility and timeline, visit: https://optyx.com/sergio-cereda-award-application/
While other design competitions highlight industry professionals or brands, the Sergio Cereda Award is one of the few global honours created specifically for emerging student designers, offering significant cash prizes, mentorship opportunities, and a live stage at the world’s leading eyewear trade show — MIDO |Milano Eyewear Show.
Celebrating Rising Stars in Eyewear Design
The award made its live debut at MIDO 2025, where Tea Rocco, a student at LABA School of Design in Italy, was named the first winner. The announcement was delivered in front of hundreds of attendees. The excitement was palpable as industry professionals from around the world witnessed her breakthrough moment. The award announcement, led by MIDO President Lorraine Berton, set a new tone for how the industry celebrates industry heritage along with fresh talent.
Later in 2025, Sophia Denison of Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) earned the North American title during Vision Expo 2025.
Quotes
“Sergio Cereda was not only my business partner for decades—he was my best friend and creative soulmate,” said Harvey Ross, founder of the Ross Viva Family Foundation and co-creator of the award. ‘’This competition is my way of honouring his legacy and ensuring that his passion for bold, beautiful, forward-thinking design lives on. We’re proud to present this award alongside MIDO to elevate the future leaders of our industry.”
“We are very enthusiastic about the 2026 edition! Our dad would be very honoured to know that his work is inspiring the creative minds of the new generations. We encourage the participating students to enjoy this opportunity to the fullest, and we thank Harvey and MIDO for making this happen.” The Cereda family
“Presenting the first winner of the Cereda Award at MIDO 2025 was a truly meaningful moment for me – said Lorraine Berton, MIDO President. Sergio Cereda made an important contribution to our industry, and it is a pleasure to pay tribute to his memory. In a sector like eyewear, where tradition and innovation go hand in hand, preserving and celebrating the legacy of those who shaped it is essential. I was also particularly pleased that the award went to a young woman, and now I’m really looking forward to discovering the winners of the next edition”.
