Latest news with #SmileTrain
Business Standard
3 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Smile Train India Announces Actress Pavani Gangireddy as New Goodwill Ambassador in Honor of World Cleft Awareness Day
VMPL Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], July 21: In a move to help transform more lives and build awareness, Smile Train India, the country's largest cleft-focused organization, announces acclaimed actress and influencer Pavani Gangireddy as its new Goodwill Ambassador for Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The appointment was made today during a special orientation event held at Basvatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute in Hyderabad. The partnership coincides with the global launch of World Cleft Awareness Day on July 20, a day officially registered by Smile Train to celebrate the strength of cleft-affected individuals and their families worldwide. During her visit, Gangireddy learned about Smile Train's sustainable cleft care model, met with local medical partners and engaged with patients and families who have benefited from Smile Train's free cleft treatment program. "I'm honoured to join hands with Smile Train India at the launch of the first World Cleft Awareness Day," said Gangireddy,. "Meeting the children and hearing their stories today was deeply moving. It's evident how critical timely cleft treatment is, not just for physical health, but for self-esteem and social acceptance. I hope to use my voice to spread awareness and help end the stigma across the region." As a Goodwill Ambassador, Gangireddy will be actively involved in Smile Train India's awareness campaigns and community engagement programs, supporting initiatives across maternal and child health and cleft care. "Pavani's strong regional connection and compassionate voice makes her a powerful advocate for the cause,"said Mamta Carroll, Smile Train's Senior Vice President and Regional Director for Asia."There are many children who still struggle to eat, breathe and speak properly due to delayed treatment. Pavani's support will help us reach families who may still be unaware that free and quality cleft care is available for their children at Smile Train' partner hospitals." Dr. Mukund Reddy, Plastic Surgeon & Smile Train Project Director at Basvatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, emphasized the significance of Global Cleft Awareness Day, stating, "A dedicated day to raise global awareness about cleft conditions was long overdue. This initiative by Smile Train opens new dimensions in community engagement, early intervention and treatment. By shining a spotlight on the challenges faced by children born with clefts and the life-changing impact of timely treatment we will be able to break myths and stigma surrounding clefts." Smile Train has transformed the lives of over 27,000 children in Telangana and 8,000 children in Andhra Pradesh through free, life-changing cleft surgeries. With three active partner hospitals in each state, the organization continues to build a sustainable healthcare ecosystem that ensures accessible, high-quality cleft care. This collaboration with the actor marks a powerful stride toward building a more inclusive, informed, and compassionate society, where no child is left behind. For cleft treatment-related queries or support, please call our toll-free helpline number: 1800 103 8301.
The Wire
4 days ago
- Health
- The Wire
Smile Train India Announces Actress Pavani Gangireddy as New Goodwill Ambassador in Honor of World Cleft Awareness Day
Renowned Telugu actress pledges support to raise cleft awareness, break stigma, and promote inclusion for children with clefts across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh Hyderabad, July 21, 2025 — In a move to help transform more lives and build awareness, Smile Train India, the country's largest cleft-focused organization, announces acclaimed actress and influencer Pavani Gangireddy as its new Goodwill Ambassador for Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The appointment was made today during a special orientation event held at Basvatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute in Hyderabad. The partnership coincides with the global launch of World Cleft Awareness Day on July 20, a day officially registered by Smile Train to celebrate the strength of cleft-affected individuals and their families worldwide. During her visit, Gangireddy learned about Smile Train's sustainable cleft care model, met with local medical partners and engaged with patients and families who have benefited from Smile Train's free cleft treatment program. 'I'm honoured to join hands with Smile Train India at the launch of the first World Cleft Awareness Day,' said Gangireddy,. 'Meeting the children and hearing their stories today was deeply moving. It's evident how critical timely cleft treatment is, not just for physical health, but for self-esteem and social acceptance. I hope to use my voice to spread awareness and help end the stigma across the region.' As a Goodwill Ambassador, Gangireddy will be actively involved in Smile Train India's awareness campaigns and community engagement programs, supporting initiatives across maternal and child health and cleft care. 'Pavani's strong regional connection and compassionate voice makes her a powerful advocate for the cause,'said Mamta Carroll, Smile Train's Senior Vice President and Regional Director for Asia.'There are many children who still struggle to eat, breathe and speak properly due to delayed treatment. Pavani's support will help us reach families who may still be unaware that free and quality cleft care is available for their children at Smile Train' partner hospitals.' Dr. Mukund Reddy, Plastic Surgeon & Smile Train Project Director at Basvatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, emphasized the significance of Global Cleft Awareness Day, stating, 'A dedicated day to raise global awareness about cleft conditions was long overdue. This initiative by Smile Train opens new dimensions in community engagement, early intervention and treatment. By shining a spotlight on the challenges faced by children born with clefts and the life-changing impact of timely treatment we will be able to break myths and stigma surrounding clefts.' Smile Train has transformed the lives of over 27,000 children in Telangana and 8,000 children in Andhra Pradesh through free, life-changing cleft surgeries. With three active partner hospitals in each state, the organization continues to build a sustainable healthcare ecosystem that ensures accessible, high-quality cleft care. This collaboration with the actor marks a powerful stride toward building a more inclusive, informed, and compassionate society, where no child is left behind. Smile Train India For cleft treatment-related queries or support, please call our toll-free helpline number: 1800 103 8301. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).
Associated Press
5 days ago
- Health
- Associated Press
Smile Train Launches World Cleft Awareness Day to Unite Global Cleft Community
Today, Sunday, July 20, 2025, Marks the Inaugural Observance NEW YORK, July 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Smile Train, the world's largest cleft-focused organization, announces the launch of World Cleft Awareness Day, the first officially recognized global day on the calendar dedicated to raising awareness about cleft lips and palates. The inaugural observance is taking place today, Sunday, July 20, 2025, aligning with National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month. World Cleft Awareness Day shines a spotlight on the entire cleft journey—from diagnosis at birth or before, through surgeries, speech therapy, orthodontia and dental care, emotional support and beyond. The goal is to increase understanding, reduce stigma, foster inclusion and amplify the voices of the millions of people around the world affected by clefts. 'World Cleft Awareness Day is about more than raising awareness—it's about celebrating the strength and resilience of the global cleft community,' said Susannah Schaefer, President & CEO of Smile Train. 'By founding and leading this observance, Smile Train is creating space for cleft-affected individuals and their families to be seen, heard and supported.' Worldwide, approximately 1 in 700 babies is born with a cleft lip and/or palate. While clefts are common and treatable, access to the years of comprehensive care required—from surgery to emotional and social support—remains out of reach for many. 'People often think of clefts as a single surgery, when in reality, the journey can last decades,' said Iva Ballou, Manager, Community Development for Smile Train. 'Being cleft affected, I've undergone numerous surgeries connected to my condition. World Cleft Awareness Day is an opportunity to educate the public and advocate for equal access to care for everyone, everywhere.' Smile Train will mark the day this year by launching a global awareness campaign that includes sharing powerful stories, engaging media, leading social media activations, and encouraging individuals, communities, and organizations to participate. In support of these efforts, Smile Train will provide a free World Cleft Awareness Day toolkit with logos, messaging and social media assets to help partners and supporters amplify the message. While Smile Train is leading this initiative, World Cleft Awareness Day is a shared platform. Medical professionals, nonprofits, corporate partners, influencers and—most importantly—patients and their families are encouraged to become involved. 'Our vision is for World Cleft Awareness Day to grow into a widely observed annual event that inspires action, kindness and connection around the globe,' said Troy Reinhart, Smile Train's Senior Vice President of Philanthropy and Ambassador Development. 'Together, we can break down barriers and build a future where no one is held back because of a cleft.' To learn more about World Cleft Awareness Day, Smile Train's initiatives and the lives of cleft-affected children, visit About Smile Train: Smile Train empowers local medical professionals with training, funding, and resources to provide free cleft surgery and comprehensive cleft care to children globally. We advance a sustainable solution and scalable global health model for cleft treatment, drastically improving children's lives, including their ability to eat, breathe, speak, and ultimately thrive. To learn more about how Smile Train's sustainable approach means donations have both an immediate and long-term impact, please visit Media Contact: Nicole Bell | Public Relations [email protected] | (646) 829-0996 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Smile Train
The Hindu
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Smile Train India's photo exhibition on children with clefts at KNMA Delhi is a powerful portrayal of reality and hope
In a world obsessed with perfection, airbrushed images, and filtered realities, a black-and-white portrait exhibition at the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) quietly but powerfully disrupts the noise. Every Smile Belongs is a compelling collaboration between Smile Train India, the world's largest cleft-focused charity organisation, and photographer Komal Bedi Sohal, who has come up with a series of photographs of children born with cleft lips and palates. But these are not pictures of sorrow or medical condition; they are stories of hope, courage, playfulness, and identity. 'The exhibition is not about evoking pity; it is about pride,' says Komal, who transitioned from an advertising creative director to a visual storyteller . 'When I pick up the camera, I do not want to tell a sad story. I want to tell a true story and one filled with light, hope and strength.' 'Advertising taught me how to communicate an idea in a few seconds,' she says. But the lens through which she now communicates is more intimate. 'The goal is different; it is not about selling a product, but about restoring dignity,' she says.' That dignity is woven through each portrait on display. Some of the children photographed are barely months old. Others are teenagers finding their way through dance, sports, or content creation. On one side of the gallery are newborns recovering from surgery, shot in quiet hospital rooms. On the other side, older children playful, vibrant, pose confidently in a public park. The collaboration with Smile Train India began with a conversation but quickly became a calling. 'When I started learning more about Smile Train, I was amazed,' Sohal recalls. 'It is not just about correcting a cleft but about building lives.' Smile Train's approach resonated deeply with her. 'Instead of glamour they wanted real, raw, honest storytelling. That was exactly what I also wanted.' For Komal, empathy was not just an attitude. It was a technique. 'I never walked in with a big flash or intimidating gear,' she explains. 'For the pre-op photographs, I used natural light in hospital rooms. No equipment, no flashes. Just light through a dusty window.' Each frame was a result of quiet trust. 'I sat beside the mothers so that their babies would not be scared. I played with the babies, talked to the children, showed them how the camera worked. It was never just 'point and shoot.' It was a process of building trust.' The post-operation portraits were shot at Sanjay Park, Delhi, during a frigid January morning. 'The kids were bundled up in warm clothes. But as we played, talked, and warmed up, they relaxed. Some said they loved to dance. One was a beauty influencer. Another loved cricket. One boy was studying horticulture. So I made images that reflected them, not just their faces.' What strikes throughout the exhibition is the absence of colour. 'I insisted on shooting in black and white. I did not want the distraction of colour. The focus had to be on the emotion, the gesture, the personality.' Komal's aim was to create what she calls 'naked portraits', raw, honest, unfiltered. 'We live in a world dominated by filters and retouching. I wanted to remind people that beauty lies in truth, not perfection.' KNMA's curation of the exhibition is appealing in that the portraits are grouped not by age or medical history, but by gestures, light and mood. One wall features children with expressive hands. Another plays with eye contact. Some are grouped by movement — like children playing ball. It is a small space, but has been used beautifully to evoke maximum emotional impact. Out of many, Komal narrates one moment when a young girl saw her portrait for the first time and walked up to the frame, put her cheek against it, and just stood there, holding it. 'That image, that moment is what this exhibition is all about,' she says. At KNMA, No. 145, DLF South Court Mall, near Select Citywalk Mall, Saket District Centre, Sector 6, Saket; Till July 6; 10.30am to 6.30pm; Mondays closed
Fashion Value Chain
26-06-2025
- Health
- Fashion Value Chain
The Country's Largest Cleft-focused NGO, Smile Train India, Presents 'Every Smile Belongs'
The world's largest cleft-focused NGO, Smile Train, launched 'Every Smile Belongs' – a powerful photo exhibition and immersive tribute to inclusion, dignity, and hope with Kiran Nader Museum of Art as its venue partner. Captured by internationally acclaimed photographer Komal Bedi Sohal, the exhibition showcases unfiltered portraits of children with clefts. These striking images transcend aesthetics; each frame captures a pivotal moment in a child's journey, unfiltered emotions and expressions, aiming to shift public perception from sympathy to empathy, and from stigma to strength. The event was inaugurated by Dr. Sujata Chaudhary, Additional Director General of Health Services (Addl. DGHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, who appreciated the initiative for bringing cleft awareness into mainstream public discourse through the lens of art and empathy. 'Every Smile Belongs' – a photo exhibition by Smile Train India at the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, celebrating smiles and stories of hope Mamta Carroll, Smile Train's Senior Vice Presidentand Regional Director for Asia, Smile Train, shared, 'The exhibition marks Smile Train India's 25-year milestone, celebrating our journey of supporting over 750,000 cleft surgeries across the country. Through this exhibition, we aim to foster greater understanding around clefts and advocate for timely, inclusive treatment, ensuring that every child can live with dignity and confidence. We are grateful to the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art and Komal Bedi Sohal for bringing their vision and partnership to this impactful initiative.' This collaboration with the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) as venue partner marks a powerful step toward using art as a catalyst for social transformation. By placing children with clefts at the heart of a respected cultural space, the exhibition affirms their visibility, celebrates their existence, and reinforces their rightful sense of belonging. Komal Bedi Sohal put great thought and care into taking these portraits, showing the unique beauty in every smile and emotion. Through her lens, the exhibition becomes a powerful reminder that behind every cleft is a story of strength, identity, and belonging. Komal Bedi Sohal, the photographer behind the lens, said, 'We live in a world obsessed with perfection. But these children showed me what real beauty looks like: raw, unfiltered, and full of expression and aspiration. This exhibition is about honoring the resilience of these cleft warriors and creating meaningful connections. I want people to pause and appreciate their presence, just as they are.' Every year, over 35,000 children in India are born with clefts, yet many go untreated, facing physical challenges and social isolation due to a lack of awareness and access to care. This collaboration between Smile Train and KNMA aims to shine a powerful spotlight on this issue, fostering greater understanding and driving meaningful conversations to ensure every child receives the support they deserve.
