Robert Bolus, affectionately known as the ‘Smiling Walker’, is turning his passion for walking into life-changing surgeries for children born with cleft conditions.
Western Cape, South Africa (18 September 2026) – We are all destined to create our own legacy. Robert Bolus has chosen to change the lives of children born with cleft conditions, giving them the chance to live with dignity and joy.
Affectionately known as the ‘Smiling Walker’, Robert is lacing up his shoes once again as the beautiful West Coast calls. Having previously completed a 502 km trek from Mossel Bay to Pringle Bay (raising R305,000) and a 176 km journey from Pringle Bay to Table Bay (raising R186,000), he is embarking on a brand-new adventure.
On 24 September 2026, he kicks off ‘Bob’s Bay-2-Bay 2026 Challenge’, walking from Table Bay all the way to Yzerfontein to raise vital funds for Operation Smile South Africa.
“There are children born with a cleft lip and palate every day,” shares Robert. “I am raising money for Operation Smile South Africa, which does incredible work for a cause that’s very close to my heart.”
For Robert, this mission is personal. He LOVES to smile, and he wants to share that simple, transformative gift with a deserving child.
“I smile a lot… and people smile back,” he says. “Smiling people are happy people.”
His journey won’t end when he reaches Yzerfontein. Later in the year, he will push onward to Velddrif, all to help change even more lives.
Every single step he takes brings hope to children and families eagerly waiting for care, and he has already raised R13,500 toward his newest goal.
Operation Smile expressed immense gratitude for the Smiling Walker’s years of dedicated support, encouraging the public to back his latest trek:
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You can stand behind Robert and help brighten a child’s future by making a donation here.
Sources: Linked Above
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