Smile Train Launches Local Initiative In Dubai To Celebrate World Smile Day 2023

Smile Train, a leading organisation focused on cleft conditions, is teaming up with Dubai Humanitarian for a special "Smile Wall" event to celebrate World Smile Day. This initiative is part of a worldwide effort to highlight the importance of smiles and support children with cleft lips and palates. The Smile Wall will be displayed at various locations in Dubai, including Dubai Mall from 2nd to 4th October and Times Square Centre from 3rd to 4th October.

The Smile Wall offers a platform for people to express what brings them joy through messages, drawings, or photos. These contributions turn ordinary spaces into vibrant showcases of hope and positivity. Afaf Meky, Executive Manager of Smile Train in Dubai, stated, "World Smile Day reminds us that a smile can carry incredible meaning." Meky expressed gratitude for public support and encouraged everyone to participate in spreading joy and raising awareness for children with clefts.

Every three minutes, a child is born with a cleft condition that can impact their ability to eat, speak, hear, and breathe. By engaging in the Smile Wall campaign, community members contribute to raising awareness and showing solidarity with affected families globally. This initiative aims to foster empathy and understanding while celebrating shared moments of happiness.

Giuseppe Saba, CEO and Board Member of Dubai Humanitarian, highlighted the significance of this collaboration. He said it serves as a reminder that simple gestures like sharing a smile can create happiness and unity across communities. "By raising awareness about children born with cleft lips and palates, we hope to inspire empathy, understanding, and shared joy," Saba remarked.

This collaboration between Smile Train and Dubai Humanitarian underscores the power of collective efforts in making a difference. The initiative not only celebrates smiles but also aims to inspire a brighter future for children born with clefts by promoting awareness and understanding. The campaign encourages everyone to join in creating moments of joy that resonate far beyond the event itself.

The Smile Wall will also be present at select university campuses during the campaign period. These installations provide an opportunity for students and faculty to engage with the cause actively. By participating in this initiative, individuals contribute to transforming everyday spaces into symbols of hope and positivity.

This initiative reflects the broader mission of both organisations: fostering connection through simple acts that have profound impacts on individuals' lives. As people come together to share their smiles, they help build a supportive community for those affected by cleft conditions worldwide.

With inputs from WAM