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Operation Smile has transformed lives around the world by providing care to patients for more than 40 years.
- Cleft Explained Get the basics on cleft conditions.
- Surgery and Beyond Learn how cleft care is more than surgery.
- Real-Life Stories Read stories from our patients and volunteers.
Using AI to Help Create New Smiles and Rebuild Lives

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We are transforming communities through education, empowerment and collaboration.
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Since our founding in 1982, Operation Smile has believed that access to safe surgery is not a privilege, but a universal human right.
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- Cleft Explained
- Surgery and Beyond
- Real-Life Stories
- Where We Work
- Health Workforce Strengthening
- Youth Empowerment
- Policy and Advocacy
- Strategic Partners
- Thought Leadership
- Ways to Give
- Share Your Medical Expertise
- Student Programs
- Advocate for Us
- Partner With Us
- Our Story and Impact
- Our Leadership
- Corporate Partners
- Financials and Reports
- News and Media
- Interactive Learning Center
- Careers

Karen Jaques

Regional Senior Vice President, Sub-Saharan Africa

Since 2022, Karen Jaques has served as the senior regional vice president for sub-Saharan Africa at Operation Smile. She joined Operation Smile UK in January 2016 as its CEO, a position she held for five years before moving into the regional leadership role to guide and support the delivery of Operation Smile’s strategic, operational and program goals in ten countries in Africa.

Prior to her work with Operation Smile, Jaques worked in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East with international medical development organizations ORBIS, AMREF and THINK Consultants for over 25 years. Her experience spans entrepreneurial business leadership, development and income generation, marketing and communications in both the private and not for profit sectors.

Born in India, raised in Kenya and having lived in Pakistan, Yemen, Hong Kong and Singapore, she feels privileged to be focusing her energies on sub-Saharan Africa, bringing cleft care to the children of Africa where her heart remains and has always been. Jaques currently resides in Devon, England, but travels extensively within Africa.

Recent Stories

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Visit With a Surgical Volunteer in Mexico
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Care Providers

Through a Resident’s Eyes
Thought Leadership

Sharing Knowledge, Strengthening Health Systems

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