Starting the day with a smile, a simple breakfast, and a grateful heart. From the rural roots to the busy halls of UCT, I carry my dreams with kindness and positivity. A smile may seem small, but it can brighten someone’s day, shift a perspective, or even save a life. They call me ‘Smiley’ because I believe happiness is not just felt, it’s shared and as my name says, Sonwabile, “we are happy”. Being kind to others also helps me help my self as you see the magnitude of change you have made on others by just being kind,compassionate and being true to yourself.

Smiles save lives, smiles grow dreams
- Photographer: Sonwabile Mlandu
- Date: August 16, 2025
- Collection: University of Cape Town