Bringing Smiles to Pokola: A Partnership Making a Real Difference
On April 15th and 16th 2025, Olam Agri Wood Products had the honor of partnering with Smile Star to bring a free dental clinic to the heart of the Pokola community. This initiative, which included services such as dental check-ups, cleanings, and extractions, aimed to improve oral health among community members and Olam Agri employees. Over the course of just a day and a half, a dedicated 15-member team from Smile Star treated more than 250 patients, providing much-needed dental care and delivering crucial oral hygiene education.
Their efforts not only brought immediate relief but also increased awareness about the importance of oral health, fostering a culture of regular dental check-ups and care in the community.
Beyond treating patients, Smile Star also invested in the future by offering free training and essential dental equipment to the medical team at Olam Agri’s on-site clinic—strengthening our ability to provide care long after the clinic ended.
At Smile Star, our mission is simple: relieve pain, create lasting change, and empower local doctors. Our first visit to Pokola has been enriching—treating hundreds, training local teams, and receiving heartfelt gratitude from the community. Thanks to our partners - Olam Agri, African Parks, WCS, and others- for warmly welcoming us to the Republic of Congo. We’re building a sustainable legacy of care we’re proud to continue year after year.
Dr Mathis,
Founder and Director of the Smile Star
The heartfelt responses from patients, like Ganongo Veroa, speak volumes. “I thank Smile Star for relieving my daughter’s pain—and for doing it free of charge. She used to writhe on the floor because of it.” This gratitude from the community is a testament to the impact of our work.
Ganongo Veroa,
Patient
This partnership with Smile Star has been truly impactful—not only in the number of patients treated, but in the renewed sense of care and hope it brought to our community. The training and equipment provided will go a long way in strengthening our clinic’s ability to deliver consistent, quality dental care. We are deeply grateful for this collaboration and proud to be part of a team making a tangible difference.
Dr. Bachir Abdel-Salam
Chief Doctor of Olam Agri’s Medical Clinic
This initiative is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when compassion and collaboration come together. It's a testament to the power of collective action and a sincere thank you to Smile Star and every person who made this campaign a success.
Together, we’re building healthier communities—one smile at a time.
