Equal Smiles, Equal Voices

The School of Commerce, Accountancy & Finance at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, in collaboration with CUCA (Christ University Commerce Association), Navigator and We4All, organized a creative initiative titled “Equal Smiles, Equal Voices” on October 3, 2025, to commemorate World Smile Day. This initiative was designed to highlight the importance of gender equity in creating a fair and inclusive world, anchored in the belief that “A smile shines brightest when it is shared equally.”

The central theme of the event—“Gender Equity: The Smile of a Fair World”—was inspired by Sustainable Development Goal 5, which emphasizes gender equality and the empowerment of all individuals. By linking this theme with World Smile Day, the event aimed to emphasize that true happiness thrives in environments where fairness, respect, and opportunities are shared equally.

The initiative invited students from across the campus to participate in a creative article-writing competition. Participants were encouraged to submit original articles between 500 and 800 words, expressing their ideas, reflections, and personal experiences on gender equity. This provided a meaningful platform for students to voice their thoughts on how equity can shape more joyful, compassionate, and just communities.

The response from the student community was enthusiastic and thoughtful. Many submissions creatively explored everyday practices of inclusion, personal experiences of empathy, and broader reflections on the societal impact of gender equity. Participants used storytelling, persuasive writing, and imaginative narratives to highlight how shared opportunities and respect can lead to a collective sense of well-being.

A key highlight of the initiative was the publication of the winning article in the monthly departmental newsletter, Navigator. This recognition gave the winner’s voice a wider platform, inspiring more students to engage with socially relevant themes and reinforcing the importance of creative expression in driving meaningful conversations.

The collaboration between CUCA and We4All significantly contributed to the success of the event. These student bodies played an active role in promoting the initiative, encouraging participation, and creating a strong sense of community involvement. Their support reflected a shared commitment to fostering inclusive spaces on campus and amplifying student voices.

Beyond being a writing competition, “Equal Smiles, Equal Voices” served as a powerful reminder that gender equity is not just a topic for discussion but a value to be lived and practiced. Through this activity, students were encouraged to reflect deeply, develop empathy, and understand their role in building a fairer society. The event also aligned with the university’s larger mission of nurturing socially responsible individuals through holistic education.

Overall, this initiative was a meaningful step in reinforcing values of inclusivity, equity, and shared joy. By blending creativity with social awareness, the School of Commerce, Accountancy & Finance successfully engaged students in an impactful and memorable celebration of World Smile Day—ensuring that every smile truly shines equally.