The SmilingOne Foundation

For 18 years, The SmilingOne Foundation has operated in South Africa’s most complex human environments - maximum-security prisons (since 2008) and schools in high-risk areas (since 2016) - transforming individuals and cultures through deep, values-based leadership development.

WHO WE ARE

We care deeply about unlocking human potential - especially in spaces where society has stopped believing change is possible. Where others see waste, we see untapped possibility. We are shareholders in the well-being of our world, a trusted partner in shifting inner and outer environments. We help out clients get unstuck.

WHY WE EXIST

Our purpose is to dismantle the harmful cycles that choke our society at its root - cycles that perpetuate crime, gender-based violence, and intergenerational trauma. The future of our children is at risk! We are committed to creating a future where the well-being and potential of all people are safeguarded, and where individuals are supported to rise into dignity, responsibility, and leadership.

WHAT WE DO

We develop:

• Responsible Individuals
• Authentic, caring leaders across businesses, schools, and communities
• Change Agents, Coaches, and Champions of Change

At the heart of our work is a circular, regenerative model of transformation: we turn incarcerated men into Change Agents - certified coaches who return to their communities as mentors, role models, and catalysts for safer, healthier environments. These Change Agents mentor youth-at-risk, support educators, and help rebuild the social fabric where it has been torn apart.

HOW WE WORK (WHAT DIFFERENTIATES US)

SmilingOne has developed a special recipe for unlocking potential. We build thriving environments hand in hand with our clients and partners.

1. We are Students of Optimal Performance! We apply a beginner's mindset: “In the Beginner’s mind, there are many possibilities, in the Expert’s only a few.”
2. We support our clients in navigating challenging terrains by equipping them with tools and skills from our values-based leadership buffet. Our approach is tailored to each client’s unique situation.
3. We have a unique way of integrating into high-risk environments:
   • 3A: We go to them, we live with them, we learn from what they know and build with what they have …
   • 3B: WE ALIGN to their heartbeat. Hand in hand we craft solutions in support of both individual and group well-being.
4. We support our clients in rewriting stories (from defeat to victory). We provide a safe space for breakthrough experiences
5. We ignite collaboration to make the culture sing

OUR MISSION

We support those most vulnerable in our society by equipping them with tools and leadership skills to grab opportunity and lead lives that impact positively - creating ripple effects that transform families, communities, and generations.

EVIDENCE-BASED PORTFOLIO

• 8 months at Elswood High - Explainer Video
• Change Agent Testimonial - Meet Theo, SmilingOne Change Agent & Karina, SmilingOne Founder
• Change Agent Testimonial - Meet Thando, SmilingOne Change Agent, hiking with Karina, SmilingOne Founder
• Annual Report 2025 Review

THREE YEAR VISION - FROM PROGRAM TO PLATFORM

Over the next three years, we strengthen our flagship projects while developing a platform that enables replication, sustainability, and long-term impact.