Once a victim of constant bullying, Zivezile walked around with his head down in fear of being ridiculed. When he discovered Operation Smile, he seized the opportunity for change. Today, with his smile fully repaired, he beams brightly and enjoys the simple pleasures of life that were once out of reach.
South Africa (12 November 2025) – He faced bullying, was often cast out by peers, and even struggled to find employment well into his adulthood. Growing up with a cleft condition wasn’t easy for Zivezile Nojamanga.
However, when he learned about Operation Smile South Africa (OSSA), Zivezile saw a chance to get the help he never thought possible.
“I was bullied a lot,” he said prior to his life-changing surgery.
“Accepting my condition was hard, but I had to come to terms with it.”
OSSA, a medical non-profit organisation that provides free reconstructive facial surgery for cleft lip and cleft palate patients, intervened, and Zivezile received cleft lip repair surgery.
The surgery transformed more than his appearance; it boosted his confidence. Five months after his cleft lip repair, Zivezile told one of OSSA’s patient coordinators, Vuyo Somdaka, that people could no longer recognise him and that he was finally able to go anywhere without fear.
Once characterised by eyes full of sadness and resignation, Zivezile now sparkles with newfound joy and confidence.
It’s been a year since he received his life-changing surgery. During his recent post-op check-up, dentists fitted him with a special plate to cover his unrepaired cleft palate and improve his speech. The device, which also includes a false front tooth, will help improve his speech and further transform his life.
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“We were able to see the transformation ourselves when Zivezile returned to our Surgical Programme in Mthatha last month. Zivezile couldn’t stop smiling,” OSSA said.
In Zivezile’s own words:
“Before surgery, I had no job, only piece work. Now I have a permanent job. I’m so happy. And I have a girlfriend.”
This is what OSSA’s mission strives to achieve: to change lives through smiles. To be part of more heartwarming stories like Zivezile’s, consider donating to OSSA here.
Sources: Operation Smile South Africa
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