In 2015, Paul “Budgie” Burgess passed away, but his legacy of connection, compassion, and quiet strength became the heartbeat of something greater.

 

A civil engineer and humanitarian, Paul worked around the world building bridges of peace and hope, striving to eradicate poverty, and advocating for social justice and human rights. He envisioned a world where children could live in peace and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. A humanitarian aid worker, surfer, and drummer, Paul believed deeply in the goodness of humanity and in our shared ability to create meaningful change.

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Paul lived with a profound respect for others, and through his accepting and loving nature, he left a lasting impact on countless lives across the world. He was known for seeing beyond circumstances—recognizing the inherent worth, dignity, and potential in every person. His “Smile” was not simply a gesture, but a symbol of peace and presence—an invitation for others to reconnect with their worth, find their voice, and step into their purpose.

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Paul and his wife, Angela Oliver-Burgess, met while serving as humanitarian aid workers in Afghanistan. Their shared passion for supporting those in need shaped both their relationship and the mission that would follow. After his passing, Angela founded Smile for Budgie to honor that shared calling and carry it forward. What began as an act of remembrance soon grew into a living, evolving body of work rooted in compassion, healing, and meaningful change.

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Over the years, Angela’s faith became the driving force behind the work they once shared. Rooted in the spiritual conviction that every person holds God-given worth, she walked alongside youth with lived experience in foster care, war-affected women, and community leaders navigating trauma and transition. These lived experiences, grounded in her faith, shaped the foundation of her approach: healing begins with presence, and peace grows through people. Guided by this vision, she developed The S.M.I.L.E. Journey—a pathway for healing, self-advocacy, and embodied leadership.

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Over the past decade, this work has reached lives across the world—from youth in Florida to communities in Ukraine, Rwanda, Nicaragua, and South Sudan. One thing remains constant: change begins one heart at a time. This impact is not defined by headlines or large-scale campaigns, but by quiet moments of transformation—where dignity is restored, hope is renewed, and new possibilities begin to unfold.

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As the mission expanded, so did its identity. While the name Smile for Budgie will always hold deep meaning, the work has grown into something broader. The transition to Smile Forward is not a departure, but a continuation—honoring where it began while creating space for deeper connection, greater collaboration, and expanded impact.

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Today, Smile Forward stands as both a philosophy and a movement—a trauma-informed approach to cultivating healing, resilience, strength, and leadership. As the mission’s primary guide, Dr. Angela Oliver-Burgess embodies the belief that peace is practiced and that true leadership begins within.