How do we raise children who are proud of their facial difference in a world that can be
challenging, confusing and unfortunately sometimes cruel?
​
And how can we as parents help them develop the resilience, courage and self-awareness
to walk through life with their heads held high?
​
These are questions that might have run through your mind at various times as you try to
help your child navigate the challenging journey of living with a cleft lip and/or palate.
​
You want them to see how beautiful they are, how much strength they have within them. And
you also want to feel that strength within you - that ability to guide them and be there for
them whatever obstacles life throws up.
​
It’s not easy though I know. I’ve been through all this too, and am still on the journey.
​
My daughter was born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate in 2007 and together we’ve
navigated the highs and lows of life with cleft. We’ve come out so much stronger and more
resilient as a result.
​
I’ve realised along the way that one of the keys to supporting my daughter to thrive with a
facial difference is celebrating and honouring it for what it teaches us all and for the gifts it
offers.
​
And that is what The 100 Cleft Portraits Exhibition is all about.
​
For more than three years I’ve been creating portraits of those born with cleft and it’s been
one of the joys of my life. The portraits reflect a wonderful synergy between my experience
of parenting a child with a facial difference and my understanding of the healing power of art
to break down stigma.
​
And they’ve supported those raising a child with cleft to see the beauty and strength they
possess whilst celebrating their journeys and their learnings. 100 of these stunning portraits
will be on display at the exhibition. The aim of this unique event is to raise awareness of
diversity, inclusivity and our collective responsibility to educate ourselves and our children
about the power of difference in all its forms.
​
It’s about empowering parents and children and fostering a deeper understanding of facial
differences within society - an understanding that leads to empathy, kindness and of course love.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
​
Over the course of the weekend, you and your family can take part in a number of enriching
activities designed to educate, inspire and foster a deeper understanding of facial difference,
including:
​
✔100 Portraits of those born with a cleft from all over the world
✔ Fun and interactive creative activities for children, such as face painting
✔ A documentary screening about the emotional creation of this project, featuring heartfelt
stories from the families involved and insights into what this exhibition means to them
✔ Workshops exploring the impact of trauma on the parenting journey, giving you valuable
knowledge to support both yourself and your child through life
✔ Guest speakers sharing their experiences and knowledge, fostering a deeper connection
within both the cleft and wider community
​
This event provides a wonderful opportunity to make connections, have fun, share stories
and view beautiful portraits of people born with cleft from all over the world.
​
Together, we can build a more compassionate and understanding society for our children.
WHY ATTEND?
​
This exhibition is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to be part of fostering a more inclusive and
welcoming society for those with a facial difference (and for anyone living with any kind of
difference).
​
It’s a chance to promote positive interactions within families and between communities. It’s
also an amazing way for your child to see other children who look just like them - to take
small steps to changing the world for the better, for all our children.
​
You’ll come away from the event feeling:
​
✅ Proud that you’ve been a part of something unique and special, and that you’ve
contributed to making the world a better place through challenging stigmas
✅ Full of inspiration and equipped to support your own child and the rest of your family with
the challenges of living with cleft
✅ Aware of the strength you also hold within you and confident in the power you have to
positively influence other people’s lives
✅ More knowledgeable about the impact of trauma on the cleft parenting journey and how
you can work through it to thrive as a family
✅ Seen and heard by a community of people going through similar challenges and
experiences to your family
​
Let’s create a safe space where those of us impacted by cleft can come together to
truly connect in person, share in a beauitful space with others, feel empowered on our
journeys and celebrate all that is beautiful about facial difference.
​
Your tribe is waiting for you here!
THE AGENDA​
The Exhibition
​
Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th July 2025 12pm - 5pm (4pm on the Sunday)
Angel and St Pancras Room, Lift
​
Showcasing 100 compelling portraits and accompanying stories of those living with cleft, help us celebrate diversity and raise awareness of this multifaceted journey. Browse the portraits and see the beauty and uniqueness of each person portrayed in stunning colours that will uplift and inspire you long after you leave the exhibition.
*Under 16's have free entry.
Trauma-Informed Parenting Workshops
​
Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th July 2025 10am-11.30am
The Chapel, Lift
A transformative 90-minute trauma-informed workshop for parents designed to give you the tools to enhance your child’s mental wellbeing and resilience. You’ll learn to recognise various forms of trauma and understand their effects on family dynamics and attachments, and enhance your communication skills to strengthen the relationship with your child.
You’ll also gain the skills to effectively advocate for your child’s needs in various settings, and create a stable and calm environment that supports nervous system regulation for everyone. You’ll come away from the workshop with greater empathy for and understanding of the journey your family is on as you all navigate life involving a facial difference.
VIP Event
​
Saturday 5th July 2025 6pm-9pm
Angel and St Pancras Room, Lift
​
An unforgettable evening featuring inspiring guest speakers sharing their insights on the cleft journey and an exciting auction of these stunning portraits that tell powerful stories of courage and determination. The auction is a chance for you to not only take home a portrait but also contribute to a cause that uplifts the cleft community and brings communities together.
Filled with glam, joy and above all love, this special evening is an opportunity to celebrate diversity and connect with others who share a commitment to inclusion and creating a compassionate world.
This VIP evening is more than just an event; it’s a rare chance to make a real difference and be part of something that will inspire your heart and soul like nothing else.
​
Take your place today and be part of a weekend that promises to inspire, educate, and connect us all.
Reserve your spot now.