LEA: Inspiration in Action

Let's all give a round of applause for our friends who just took part in our 13th annual Latinoamérica en Acción student leadership conference (which we lovingly call LEA). 

Representing 10 countries, more than 180 participants came together for LEA in Asunción, Paraguay, from Jan. 20-26 to become even better advocates for Operation Smile. They learned from guest speakers, took part in interactive workshops, and, most importantly, made friendships we're sure will last a lifetime!

There was no better way to embrace the conference theme — "Act to Inspire" — than by serving patients and their families at the Operación Sonrisa Paraguay care center. Participants were honored with the opportunity to bring joy to this community by playing together, making friendship bracelets and other crafts, and decorating the center. Every child received a back-to-school kit complete with the essentials — pencils, erasers, paint and more — which were all donated by the LEA participants. 

Follow @latinoamericaenaccion on Instagram for more from LEA 2026!