Smile Again Project

Gender-based violence is an expression of power and control and is a phenomenon that is deeply rooted in gender inequities between women and men. Acid attacks are acts of violence in which a person is attacked with acid or similar caustic material. Acid attack victims suffer from trauma and low self-esteem, are often ostracized by society and may lack the self-will to go on with life. 

We have extended our support to the survivors of gender-based violence through providing psychosocial support, vocational training, small business setups, advocacy and awareness.

Pakistan’s Depilex Smileagain Foundation, which provides acid survivors with medical care, reconstructive surgery, and psychiatric support and creates economic empowerment opportunities to boost their productivity, is our partner in this one-year project, launched in February 2021. Our main goal under the project is to provide psychological and psychiatric assistance to facilitate the social reintegration of 48 victims of violence.

To create a supportive and sustainable environment for women, we have offered extensive vocational training in diverse fields, including nursing, beauty, telecommunications, and sales. The education and training opportunity will pave the way for the rehabilitation of survivors who, on completion of the training, will be offered suitable jobs at relevant organizations based on their levels of expertise. In addition, to ensure sustainable livelihoods, four women will also receive support in setting up small businesses such as a grocery store, tailoring outlet, salon, or bakery, in their own homes.

Our commitment to gender equity and advancing women’s empowerment will be taken forward through advocacy and educational awareness initiatives through blogs, social media, webinars, and pressure groups. To achieve better results, we will work in cooperation with educational institutes, the local and international public and private sector, as well as print media.