At Smile For Life we understand that change comes with awareness, if people do not know there is an issue then they cannot tackle it. Through our ongoing outreach and awareness programs we ensure communities, local leaders and policy makers are aware and up to date on threats facing sea turtles and the marine environment. This way policy can be guided that will protect the environment instead of overlooking it in the policy making process as has previously happened.

“You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” - Dr. Jane Goodall

When we connect people with the marvels of nature they gain a newfound appreciation for the world around them and why it is so important that we protect nature and the environment for its own sake but also for the sake of ourselves who also need a healthy environment in which to exist and flourish.

This is a female adult Green Sea Turtle that was attacked by a would be poacher. Thankfully we were alerted to the turtle and in partnership with the Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust together, and with help and guidance from international sea turtle experts, we were able to treat and release this turtle and give her a second chance at life after her ordeal. To prevent such occurrences it is essential that we continue our work in communities, create the necessary awareness and involve enforcement authorities to deter such attacks on nesting sea turtles.