This World Smile Day (3 October), a local survey reveals that many people are surprisingly self-conscious about their smiles: 39% worry about food stuck in their teeth, 20% about crooked teeth, and 16% dislike their “weird smile” in photos. While most of us take our ability to smile for granted, less than half of the respondents (42%) admitted they’ve held back from smiling in public because of insecurities. But for thousands of South Africans born with cleft lips and palates, the challenges go far beyond minor photo worries.
“If we feel uncomfortable smiling because of the small stuff, imagine a smile that needs surgery to shine,” says Sarah Scarth, Executive Director at Operation Smile South Africa (OSSA). “That’s why we work to provide free, life-changing treatment to children around the country.” Since its establishment in South Africa in 2006, Operation Smile has brought smiles to thousands of faces with the support of a volunteer network of medical specialists – and the general public. “None of our cleft-lip and palate surgeries would be possible without their help,” says Scarth.
According to Scarth, World Smile Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday of October, to encourage acts of kindness and spread happiness through the simple, universal act of smiling. Created in 1999 by Harvey Ball — the artist behind the iconic 1963 smiley face — the day aims to revive the symbol’s original message of goodwill and positivity.
What makes us smile?
Science tells us that even a fake smile has benefits – when we are in a foul mood, pasting a smile on our dial actually gets our brain feeling better, and soon we may find ourselves smiling for real!
Most of us (87%) believe our smile impacts the way people see us – almost all in a positive way. But whose smiles are we ourselves most impacted by? Our children’s smiles were top of the list, followed by partners and pets (as much as our cats, dogs and birds can smile). Friends were in the rankings, too – many people surveyed actually found it impossible to pick one “favourite” smile from the options given.
Loved ones aside, there are many reasons we smile. For some, it’s a “beautiful moment”, or being outside on a nice day. Others said that a funny joke or random act of kindness is what turns their frown upside down. For others still, it’s something as simple as being able to blow out the candles on a birthday cake – something most of us don’t have to think about.
From First Surgeries to First Smiles: Nzulu’s Journey to Joy
This November, Nzulu* from Ramsgate, KZN, turns three — and for the very first time, he will blow out his birthday candles and enjoy a slice of cake without pain. His first two birthdays were spent in hospital undergoing surgeries to repair his cleft, making this year’s celebration a simple joy that once felt out of reach.
After undergoing life-changing cleft lip and palate surgeries through OSSA, Nzulu’s own smile can finally shine, reflecting the courage, care and perseverance that brought him here. “From his father’s first parent support workshop and the support of our caregiver networks to his first two surgeries and ongoing follow-up care, Nzulu’s journey is a testament to the transformative impact of comprehensive cleft treatment, the dedication of volunteers and the power of community in giving children not just a new smile but a brighter, healthier future,” says Scarth.
Call to Action
Surgery to repair a cleft lip can take as little as 45 minutes. With your support OSSA can reach more people living with unrepaired cleft conditions and get them life-changing surgery and comprehensive care. Donations directly fund surgical programs, medical training and ongoing cleft care that ensure healthier futures for thousands with a cleft lip or cleft palate.
“You can help change a life today by donating to fund safe, free surgeries for children with a cleft condition,” encourages Scarth.
Other ways to support:
• Volunteer or partner with OSSA: Use your skills, platform, or resources to bring smiles where they’re needed most.
• Sign up for the OSSA newsletter: One of the easiest ways to support Operation Smile is by joining their mailing list via their website www.operationsmile.org.za
Genir Vittu
Soweto Sunrise News
