We Build Hope

Letting Her Beauty Shine Through

Makeup influencer Palisha never hides her scars.

November 17, 2025

Twenty-one-year- old Palisha sits in front of her camera, makeup brush in hand, ring light glowing. She’s enjoying a newly found business opportunity, demonstrating makeup and cosplay tutorials. “They allow me to express my creativity and personality,” she says, smiling.

Palisha’s journey to becoming a confident young woman was not an easy one.

Born with a complex cleft condition, she needed extra care as a baby to ensure she was feeding properly and receiving the nutrition she needed to grow. Her parents found Operation Smile when she was 5 years old and set her on a path to receive multiple surgeries — nine in total.

I felt blessed because each surgery, each physical change, the ability to eat properly and the ability to express myself better always brought a positive change, allowing me to continue moving forward
— Palisha, Operation Smile patient

Palisha lives in Guatemala, one of the 37 countries where Operation Smile works. With only one specialist surgical provider for every 100,000 people many families in Guatemala face long journeys just to receive the care they need.

See how Operation 100 is building hope.

For over 40 years we have been transforming care by strengthening health care systems and building sustainable solutions. Now through Operation 100, we are bringing that essential care even closer to patients, near their communities. Sign up today discover more stories like Palisha’s.

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Today, a high school graduate with a love for reading, Palisha has found her voice – and embraces her journey and her scars. “I feel proud of myself because I believe there are no limitations,” she says. “Everything is a process that helps me grow as a human being.”

Help Build Hope

For over 40 years, we have been transforming care by strengthening health care systems and building sustainable solutions. Now through Operation 100, we are bringing that essential care even closer to patients, near their communities. Sign up today discover more stories of hope.

Join Us