International Student Leadership Conference
Make friends, make memories, make a difference: Our annual gathering equips you with the skills to make an impact in your community and beyond.
ISLC 2025
Operation Smile’s 33rd annual ISLC will take place at the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland, USA from July 21-27, 2025. Want to join us? Send us an email at [email protected] for details.
Ready to Make Your Mark?
If you’re ready to make your mark on the world, then Operation Smile’s International Student Leadership Conference (ISLC) is the place for you!
ISLC brings together Operation Smile’s high school and undergraduate volunteers for a weeklong gathering, where everyone learns from inspiring speakers and takes part in interactive workshops.
You’ll leave ISLC equipped with the leadership skills necessary to make a direct impact on the lives of our patients, your community, and our world.
I’m New to ISLC. What Can I Expect?
While every year is unique, there are three key ingredients to ISLC’s secret sauce: purpose, philanthropy, and fun.
Purpose
Interactive Workshops: Get out of your comfort zone and put your skills to the test.
Inspiring Keynotes: With a special focus on global health, you’ll learn from leaders in their fields.
Cleft Connect Chat Panel: Our student volunteers born with a cleft condition take the stage to share their stories and answer your questions. They’re part of our Cleft Connect Chat community.
Philanthropy
Annual Service Project: From making cards for patients to hosting a field day for children, we bring our sprit of service to the host community.
“Shop for Smiles”: A night of cultural appreciation, everyone brings items from their country to sell and raise money for surgeries.
Fun
Team Games: Enjoy a true test of teamwork during our outdoor field day.
Talent Show: Sing, dance, make music – whatever your talent is, share it with us as we cheer you on!
Final Celebration: Our last evening together, hang out with your new friends (and take part in “Just Dance,” an ISLC tradition).
Friendship: You’ll make meaningful connections with people from almost every continent.
My time (at ISLC) has been the most amazing thing I’ve experienced in my 18 years. … I’ve learned the importance of working hard and just pursuing your dreams, no matter the challenges.
— Aisha from the United Arab Emirates
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a look at common questions we receive about ISLC – but we’re here to help if you have more! Send us an email at [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.
Join Student Programs
From starting a club to hosting a service project, Operation Smile empowers young people of all ages to help our patients.
Featured Stories
ISLC 2024
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ISLC 2023