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SMILE...about our ambassadors
“Our greatest desire as parents is that our children grow up to embody the finest of all human qualities. We want them to be joyful and resourceful, kind and funny, clever and generous. We want them to have endless opportunities and the enthusiasm and capacity to realise them.
Mostly, we want them to be healthy.
Parents of children with rare diseases want the same things. But without the necessary research to find cures, they are forced to confront the extreme challenges of caring for their children, unsupported. The SMILE Foundation recognises the vital role of medical research in extending and improving the lives of these children and their families.”
Elle Macpherson, 2007
Elle Macpherson
Global Ambassador
Supermodel, actor, businesswoman and mother of two, Elle Macpherson embodies the spirit of the SMILE Foundation, combining creativity, business acumen and compassion. She is one of the most recognisable faces in the world, appearing on innumerable magazine covers, starring alongside Hollywood’s finest in films such as Sirens, The Edge and Batman & Robin, and appearing on NBC sitcom Friends. Her lingerie collection Elle Macpherson Intimates is a leading international brand. Elle is committed to improving the health of children. In addition to her role as SMILE Ambassador, she has also been Ambassador for UNICEF UK’s Baby Friendly Initiative (2005) which helps parents make informed choices about how they feed and care for their babies. Elle is currently a European Ambassador for (RED), a global initiative in the fight against AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
Ambre Hammond
Ambre began piano studies at the age of three and gave her first concert at age five. At age 12 she became the first pianist in the world to receive the Associate and Licentiate Diplomas of Music in the same year. At 17, Ambre performed the Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No.3 in Argentina, with the recording acclaimed by the Rachmaninoff Society of USA as one of the finest recordings ever made of this piece. She has since toured the world performing the great classics, and also combining talents with the great James Morrison for blues and jazz standards. Ambre is passionate about medical research and improving health outcomes. In addition to her work as SMILE Ambassador, she is also a Field Partner for Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors without Borders).
Joh Bailey
As one of Australia's most respected and dedicated hair talents, Joh Bailey's name has become synonymous with not only beautiful hair but with glamour and style. His dedication to his craft as well as his clientele has seen his name rise to icon status throughout the country ensuring his longevity as Australia's most loved stylist. Joh and his salons have become an institution in the Sydney scene since he opened his flagship salon in Double Bay in 1985. His commitment to the SMILE Foundation and philanthropy in general is evident by his desire and willingness to not only lend his name to charity but to get involved on every level. Joh’s business success and caring nature have enabled him to support a number of charities.
“I believe wholeheartedly in the concept of giving, especially where children are concerned and am proud to be a SMILE Ambassador”.
Belinda Barbagallo
Mother of 2 girls, Belinda Barbagallo joined the SMILE Foundation team as an Ambassador this year. Her nephew, Johnnie Sussanna was diagnosed with a rare lung condition at birth and was not expected to live to see his first birthday. It was through Belinda's tireless efforts that the Federal Government agreed to make a one-off Act of Grace payment of $1.5 million so Johnnie could be flown to the US for lifesaving treatment. Johnnie lived ten full, mostly healthy years until sadly, he passed away suddenly last year, aged 10. Her family’s tragedy coincided with Belinda leaving her work in the travel industry after 10 years when she became inspired to get involved with SMILE.
“The SMILE Foundation has been a blessing for my family as they understand and share in the knowledge that there is nothing more distressing than a child in pain. I am sincerely proud to be involved with SMILE and its wonderful, vital work”.
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