Today marks World Smile Day, a global celebration with a simple yet powerful reminder that a smile can change everything. But according to a new local survey, many South Africans are holding back their smiles because of insecurities.
The findings show that 39% worry about food stuck in their teeth, 20% about crooked teeth, and 16% dislike their ‘weird smile’ in photos. Strikingly, 42% admitted they’ve avoided smiling in public altogether.
For most, these are temporary concerns. But for thousands of children born with cleft lips and palates, smiling isn’t just about confidence, it often requires surgery.
‘If we feel uncomfortable smiling because of the small stuff, imagine a smile that needs surgery to shine,’ said Sarah Scarth, who is the Executive Director at Operation Smile South Africa (OSSA). ‘That’s why we work to provide free, life-changing treatment to children around the country.’
Thirty-three-year-old Promise Thembelihle Mathebula knows firsthand the life-changing impact of cleft surgery. As a child, she underwent treatment through Operation Smile.
Now, her 11-month-old son, Mpelo, has followed in her footsteps. Born with a cleft lip and palate, Mpelo had a successful lip repair during the organisation’s 2024 surgical programme in Mbombela. This year, in 2025, both mother and son underwent palate surgeries, marking another milestone in their journey.
Picture: Supplied/Operation Smile South Africa
A day with meaning
World Smile Day was created in 1999 by Harvey Ball, the artist behind the iconic yellow smiley face. Observed every first Friday of October, it’s all about spreading kindness and reminding people of the universal power of a smile.
Research shows that smiling, even when forced, can actually improve mood. The survey also revealed that 87% believe their smile shapes how others perceive them, mostly in positive ways.
When asked whose smiles matter most, South Africans placed children at the top of the list, followed by partners, pets and friends. Others found joy in simple things; a sunny day, a shared laugh, or the moment of blowing out candles on a birthday cake.
Picture: Supplied/Operation Smile South Africa
From first surgeries to first smiles
For little Nzulu from Ramsgate, KwaZulu-Natal, this year’s birthday will be unforgettable. Turning three in November, he will blow out his candles for the very first time without pain.
His first two birthdays were spent in hospital undergoing surgeries for a cleft lip and palate, made possible through OSSA’s volunteer medical network.
‘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,’ Scarth explained.
Cleft lip repair surgery can take just 45 minutes, but it can change a life forever. OSSA relies on public support to continue its mission.
‘You can help change a life today by donating to fund safe, free surgeries for children with a cleft condition,’ Scarth urged.
Ways to get involved include donating, volunteering skills or resources, or signing up for the OSSA newsletter via www.operationsmile.org.za.
As World Smile Day reminds us, a smile is more than a gesture. For many, it’s a step towards connection and joy. Thanks to ongoing medical efforts and public support, more South Africans like Nzulu can look forward to birthdays filled with laughter, and smiles that truly shine.
Picture: Supplied/Operation Smile South Africa
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Picture: Supplied/ Operation Smile South Africa
