The Smile Event Returns to New York City to Benefit Operation Smile

NEW YORK CITY, NY, October 11, 2024 – Global nonprofit Operation Smile gathered supporters on October 10, 2024, at The Smile Event in New York City to celebrate longstanding partnerships and advocates.

Since 2004, Operation Smile and Lladró have worked together to fund hundreds of life-changing surgeries. The event was an opportunity to commemorate a shared, ongoing commitment to transforming lives and bring together the local community to raise awareness about the impact of Operation Smile.

The event also honored Operation Smile global ambassador Pritika Swarup with the Cotto Changemaker Award. Pritika, a Virginia Beach native, became involved with Operation Smile as a student volunteer. As she built her career, she kept Operation Smile in the back of her mind and eventually became an Operation Smile global ambassador. Now an international model, activist and entrepreneur, she remains dedicated to supporting Operation Smile and raising awareness about the organization’s life-changing work.

“Operation Smile relies on the support of compassionate and committed partners to extend our reach and multiply our efforts, such as corporate partner Lladró and Global Ambassador Pritika Swarup,” said Kathy Magee, Operation Smile co-founder, president and CEO. “With this event, it is a true honor and privilege to mark the 20th anniversary of our partnership with Lladró, global artisans of beautiful porcelain creations. We are grateful that for two decades the Lladró family has embraced our goal of giving every child, everywhere, access to the surgery and care they need to thrive. And we are also very proud to present the Cotto Changemaker Award to international model Pritika Swarup, who has been part of Operation Smile since joining its student programs in high school. Swarup enjoys visiting with Operation Smile patients around the world, encouraging them to live confidently, as she believes that true beauty comes from the inside. Congratulations and a heartfelt thank you to both Pritika and Lladró.”

Over 130 guests attended The Smile Event including Operation Smile volunteers, donors and supporters from across New York and New Jersey. A donation was made by Mediterranean Shipping Company to support Operation Smile’s programs.

The event was made possible by Lladró, The Cotto Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley, Lic-Lac Chocolates, Freixenet and Montaraz.

About Operation Smile

Operation Smile is a leading global nonprofit bridging the gap in access to essential surgeries and health care, starting with cleft surgery and comprehensive care. We provide medical expertise, training, mentorship, research and care through our dedicated staff and volunteers around the world, working alongside local governments, nonprofits and health systems, and supported by our generous donors and corporate partners. Visit Operation Smile for more information.

Contact: Pedro Mucciolo
Senior Director, Global Communications 
Operation Smile 
[email protected]