About the Initiative

Brighter Smiles for Brighter Futures is a community-driven dental health project launched at the IREAD ECDL School on the Kyambogo University campus in Kampala, Uganda. This heartfelt initiative was spearheaded by Afiyah Mohammed, a passionate high school student from Nederland High School in Texas, USA.

During a visit to her home country, Uganda, Afiyah witnessed firsthand the limited access many families had to basic dental health services and education. Having grown up in Kampala herself, she understood the long-term impact poor dental hygiene can have on a child’s health and confidence. Driven by a desire to give back and support children in her community, Afiyah envisioned a program that would provide not only resources but also knowledge—empowering children and families to take control of their oral health.

To turn her vision into reality, she collaborated with Dr. Reema Nancy, a skilled dental surgeon at AIA Healthcare and a respected member of the Ismaili community. Together, they brought a unique blend of passion, expertise, and community spirit to the project.

The Dental Workshop

The cornerstone of the initiative was an engaging and educational dental workshop held at IREAD ECDL School. This event brought together students, teachers, and parents in a collaborative effort to build awareness about oral hygiene.

Led by Dr. Reema Nancy, the workshop featured an informative presentation tailored for both adults and children. Parents had the opportunity to ask important questions about dental care, receive practical tips for managing their children’s oral hygiene, and learn how to prevent common dental issues at home.

Meanwhile, children from the baby, middle, and top classes participated in fun, hands-on learning activities. They practiced brushing techniques, played games centered on dental health, and sang an enjoyable, easy-to-remember song that taught the basics of tooth care. The activities were designed to be age-appropriate and enjoyable, making learning both memorable and impactful.

As part of the workshop, each child received a dental care package, which included a toothbrush, toothpaste, and educational materials. These packages were intended to reinforce the lessons learned during the event and encourage daily dental care routines at home.

Impact and Future Vision

Brighter Smiles for Brighter Futures made an immediate and heartfelt impact on the IREAD ECDL School community. For many children and families, it was their first structured introduction to proper dental hygiene practices. The smiles on the faces of the young learners, the curiosity in their questions, and the gratitude of their parents highlighted the importance and effectiveness of the initiative.

Beyond the workshop, the project aims to spark a ripple effect—raising awareness about dental health throughout the larger community. Afiyah and Dr. Reema hope to expand the initiative to reach more schools, especially in underserved areas where the need for health education is critical.

This project stands as a testament to what young people can achieve when they combine passion, personal experience, and the drive to create meaningful change. With continued support and collaboration, Brighter Smiles for Brighter Futures aspires to build a healthier, more confident future for children across Uganda—one bright smile at a time.