On 23 and 24 April 2026, Operation Smile, joined key partners – including the Eastern Cape Department of Health and Igwiba Lesizwe Foundation – to take the Bring a Smile Campaign to the rural community of Whittlesea in the Eastern Cape, within the Enoch Mgijima Municipality.
Aligned with World Oral Health Day, the two-day outreach reached over 600 learners from six schools, providing access to a wide range of essential health services. These included dental care, optometry, audiology, speech and language support, psycho-social services, and general health screenings.
Critical health services
Day one focused on primary school learners, creating an engaging and educational environment while delivering critical health services. Free dental screenings were conducted on-site, and dental care kits, including toothbrushes and toothpaste were distributed.
Day two welcomed high school learners, combining health access with interactive discussions on important topics such as sexual and reproductive health, substance abuse, and gender-based violence.
Cleft conditions
The campaign also played a vital role in identifying patients with cleft conditions. Community members actively sought out the Operation Smile team, and local healthcare workers have committed to referring additional patients for treatment, ensuring that care extends well beyond the campaign itself.
Through collaboration and community engagement, the Bring a Smile Campaign continues to foster healthier futures and leave a lasting impact where it is needed most.
