Now in its fifth edition, Cleft Con India has grown into India’s largest platform of its kind. This year’s gathering was held under the theme “Cleft Proud, Smile Loud”, celebrating the strength, resilience and spirit of India’s cleft community.
The event featured a keynote address by Michael Dehal, Senior Portfolio Manager at Dehal Investment Partners of Raymond James Ltd. Born with a cleft lip and palate, Dehal spoke about transforming his personal journey into a story of resilience. He went on to build a successful career in finance while championing greater awareness and acceptance for individuals born with clefts. His address offered insights into overcoming stigma, building confidence and using lived experience to inspire change.
Cleft warriors and families participated in candid conversations and shared firsthand accounts of courage and transformation. The gathering also featured sessions examining the emotional, social and medical dimensions of living with a cleft, along with discussions on the importance of early intervention and comprehensive care.
Susannah Schaefer, President & CEO, Smile Train, said, “Every year, Cleft Con India shows us the power of community – of individuals, families, and medical partners coming together to change the narrative around facial differences. We remain committed to ensuring every child in India has access to free, quality cleft care, no matter where they are born.”
Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President & Regional Director, Asia, Smile Train, added, “Cleft Con India is a reminder that pride and confidence are as much a part of comprehensive cleft care as surgery itself. This year's theme, Cleft Proud, Smile Loud, captures exactly what we see in India every year – a community that refuses to be defined by stigma, and instead leads with strength and self-acceptance.”
More than 35,000 children are born with clefts in India each year, and many continue to face bullying and isolation because of their facial differences. Left untreated, cleft can lead to difficulties in eating, hearing, speaking and breathing. Timely medical intervention can transform outcomes, allowing children to thrive physically, socially and emotionally.
Smile Train works with a network of 130+ medical partner hospitals across 30 states and Union Territories in India, supporting 100% free, comprehensive cleft care through a sustainable model that trains and funds local medical professionals.
Events such as Cleft Con India play a role in raising awareness, reducing stigma and reinforcing the importance of early medical intervention and long-term support for individuals affected by clefts. Beyond the personal stories, discussions and performances, this year’s gathering reaffirmed the strength of community in fostering acceptance, underscoring the message that every individual has the right to be cleft proud and to smile loud.
For cleft treatment-related queries or support, Smile Train India’s toll-free helpline number is 1800 103 8301.
About Smile Train India
Smile Train India works to support comprehensive cleft care through its network of medical partner hospitals across India.
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