World Smile Day – Celebrating the Power of a Smile

World Smile Day is celebrated every year on the first Friday of October. The day was created in 1999 by Harvey Ball, the artist who designed the famous yellow smiley face. He wanted a day when everyone could put aside differences, share kindness, and make the world brighter with a smile.

Smiling is universal—it connects us beyond culture, language, and borders. In Yoruba culture, there’s a saying:

“Ẹrín lóògùn ìbànújẹ” – A smile is the medicine for sorrow.

This proverb reminds us that a simple smile has the power to heal, uplift, and inspire joy in others.

As we celebrate World Smile Day, let’s remember to:

Share a smile with someone in need.

Perform an act of kindness.

Carry the spirit of joy into our everyday lives.

A smile costs nothing, but its value is immeasurable.