It’s been 20 years since Alliance for Smiles was formed with the mission to transform the lives of children born with cleft lip and palate by providing free comprehensive treatment.
As we grew, so did our objectives which now includes training, equipping and empowering local medical providers to address the long-term needs of cleft patients.
To celebrate our 20th anniversary, we wanted to not just look back on our journey, but also the people who made our missions possible – the many volunteers who generously shared their time, experience and skills; the staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes and the board members whose knowledge and expertise shape our future.
Tina Fischlin
Board Member and Mission Director
Tina Fischlin, Board Member at Alliance for Smiles, who has served as Mission Director multiple times over the years, including for our current mission to Hue, Vietnam, shares the powerful reasons behind her commitment to AfS and the crucial role she plays in bringing cleft care to underserved regions.
From planning every detail of a mission to navigating unexpected challenges on the ground, Tina’s dedication helps AfS change lives across the globe. She also shares her inspiring vision for AfS’s future and a message for potential volunteers, highlighting the deep rewards of transforming a child’s life with something as simple as a smile.
Read her detailed interview below:
What was it about AFS that made you first want to go on a mission?
What was it about AfS that made you first want to go on a mission?
Tina Fischlin: What first drew me to Alliance for Smiles was their unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of children born with cleft lip and palate, particularly in underserved areas. The opportunity to be part of a team that changes lives so dramatically and so immediately was incredibly inspiring. It wasn’t just about the surgeries but also the long-term impact on the communities we serve.
As Mission Director, you’ve been instrumental in scouting and visiting new mission sites. Could you explain your role and the process behind deciding where AfS should travel to next, and all of the behind-the-scenes activity leading up to the mission and the mission itself?
Tina Fischlin: As Mission Director, my role involves extensive planning, coordination, and collaboration to ensure the success of each mission. The process starts with evaluating potential sites by looking at factors such as the need for cleft surgeries in that region, the availability of local medical facilities, and the level of support we can expect from local healthcare professionals and other organizations such as Rotary. This involves on-site visits, meetings with hospital administrators, Ministry of Health and assessing logistical needs.
During the mission itself, my focus shifts to overseeing the day-to-day operations—everything from managing logistics to resolving any unexpected challenges. It’s a collaborative effort, requiring constant communication with both the team and our local partners to ensure the mission runs smoothly.
What kind of challenges do you face in the lead-up to a mission or during a mission, and how do you overcome them?
Tina Fischlin: One of the biggest challenges in the lead-up to a mission is ensuring that all logistics align perfectly, from transporting medical equipment to ensuring our partners are ready to receive us. Each country has its own regulatory requirements, which can complicate the process of bringing in supplies or getting medical clearance for our team members. We often face unexpected hurdles, like customs delays or sudden changes in local healthcare regulations.
During the mission itself, challenges can range from limited resources at the local hospitals to unexpected patient needs. To overcome these, we rely on the adaptability and resourcefulness of our team. Having contingency plans in place is crucial, as well as fostering a team environment where everyone is willing to step up and problem-solve on the fly. Flexibility and communication are key to navigating these challenges.
Where do you hope to see AfS 10 years from now? Is there any specific work that you believe AfS should focus on?
Tina Fischlin: In 10 years, I hope to see Alliance for Smiles expanding its reach to even more underserved regions, while also deepening our commitment to sustainability. This includes training local healthcare professionals so they can carry on the work long after our team leaves. I hope that we continue to build on the relationships we have established over the 20 years of service.
What message do you have for anyone who wishes to volunteer with AfS in any capacity?
Tina Fischlin: If you’re considering volunteering with Alliance for Smiles, I would say this: Every child deserves a smile. No matter what your background is, you can make a difference. Be prepared for one of the most fulfilling experiences of your life! The work is challenging, but the rewards are beyond measure. Seeing the immediate transformation in a child’s life and knowing you’ve played a part in giving them a brighter future is incredibly powerful. These missions change your life too! You become more aware of so much we take for granted.
