Smile Train reflect on #InspireInclusion following this year’s International Women’s Day

At Smile Train, we work with so many incredible supporters – many of whom are women – and we constantly are in awe of the inspiring challenges they undertake, or the generous hours they put into fundraising activities, all to raise those vital funds to help us continue to change the world, one smile at a time. 

As we draw towards the end of March, we reflect on this year’s #InspireInclusion theme for International Women’s Day, and we wanted to shine a spotlight on one of our female supporters who inspires us each day proving that there isn’t anything women with clefts can’t achieve – Emily (Em) Stott.

Being born with a cleft lip, Em is all too familiar with the challenges those with clefts face. From not being able to hear properly throughout her childhood, to being bullied at school for the appearance of her lip – Em admits that her difficulties during her early years shaped her into the strong and proud woman that she is today.

Amongst her incredible achievements in her career as an actress, Em and her biggest supporter and influence, mum Val, took on a new challenge and participated in January’s Winter Walk Half Marathon in London, in support of Smile Train UK.

As someone who doesn’t love sport, Em knew the Winter Walk would be a challenge for her, but she saw it as a special thing that she could do with her Mum – and raise money in the process.

The walk was a huge success and Em & her mum had a great time, especially as the sun was shining! They raised over £4,000 – an incredible amount of money that will make a huge difference in the lives of those born with a cleft around the world.

Em’s advice for any young girls being bullied for being born with a cleft?:

“I am so proud to have been born with a cleft lip, it’s my favourite thing about myself. If there’s anyone out there who’s having a tough time at school who’s cleft affected, stay strong! Take it on the chin, let it fuel you and don’t let them dim your light!”

Thank you, Em, for continuing to inspire all of us at Smile Train!

To find out more information about Smile Train, please visit: www.smiletrain.org.uk/.