WHAT WE DO
Born from Compassion, Evolving for Impact:
Operation Smile wasn’t always about teenage orphans. It began in 2020, during the pandemic’s darkest hour. As an arm of Young and On Fire International, a ministry passionate about empowering young leaders, we saw families struggling. Led by the visionary Mrs. Rejoice Azuka-Uwuseba, Operation Smile rose to the challenge, feeding over 200 families across Nigeria during the lockdown
A New Vision Emerges:
Fast forward to 2024. We realized a different need, a silent crisis: teenage orphans in Nigeria. Studies show a staggering number of orphans – over 17.5 million – yet only a fraction reside in registered orphanages. Many live with relatives, often victims of violence, or disappear altogether. When orphanages are visited, teenagers are scarce. They’re released into a harsh world – insecure, economically depressed, and hungry – with little support.
This is where Operation Smile steps in.
Here’s what we do:
- Empower Teenage Orphans: We equip them with education, life skills, and emotional support to navigate their future.
- Bridge the Gap: We work with families and orphanages to ensure a smoother transition for teenagers leaving care.
- Raise Awareness: We shine a light on this often-overlooked issue and advocate for better policies for orphans.
Operation Smile isn’t just about charity; it’s about hope. We believe in the potential of every young person, and we’re committed to giving them the tools they need to thrive.
Meet The Team and Volunteers
Our Commitment to Sustainable Development
Operation Smile is proud to align our mission with the first four Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating our commitment to creating a more just and equitable world.
By addressing these critical needs, Operation Smile is making a significant contribution to the sustainable development of our community and the world.
Join us in making a difference by becoming a volunteer today. Let’s work together to build a brighter future for teen orphans.
