Our story

An everyday object.
A very human possibility.

Lisette and Leonie founded America Smiles to encourage kindness and real-world human connection. The original idea uses technology as a starting point—not the place where the experience ends.

Original founders’ photograph of Lisette and Leonie Kalra
Lisette and Leonie Kalra · America Smiles co-founders.
Meet the founders

See an object.
Spark a connection.

At 11, Lisette and Leonie created Westport Smiles. They went on to found America Smiles to bring the mission to more people and communities.

The original experience begins with something around you. A book might prompt a shared reading moment. A ball might suggest an invitation to play. Technology offers a possibility; people choose what is safe, appropriate and meaningful.

Then the phone goes away, and the real-world connection can begin.

How it began

The story and
the Original Experience.

The original films and walkthroughs, as Lisette and Leonie made them.

Still from How it began1:26
How it began - film (1:26)

How it began

The America Smiles story film - how it began, in the girls’ own words and footage.

Read the transcript

Welcome to America Smiles, see an object spark a connection. In a world where too many people feel alone, a small act can build a bridge. We wondered, what if technology could help us notice the openings for kindness already around us? Meet Lisette and Leonie and their friendly AI guide, Professor Juju. Take a picture of an ordinary object. A ball becomes an invitation to play. A book becomes a reason to read with someone. A mug becomes a chance to share cocoa and ask about their day. Professor Juju offers ideas. You choose what feels safe and right. Then the phone goes away and the real connection begins. The AI can make mistakes. The first version even mixed up shoes and books. So we kept learning, testing and leading with heart. Because smart technology is only the start. The point is a smile, a conversation, a neighborhood that feels closer. Small acts, real interactions, healthier communities. Join America Smiles and help kindness travel from one person to the next.

Still from The Original Experience1:11
The Original Experience - walkthrough (1:11)

The Original Experience

A walkthrough of the original Scan. Discover. Connect. experience, recorded by the girls.

Read the transcript

We believe a little bit of kindness can make a big difference. That's why we created America Smiles, a project that turns everyday objects into opportunities for kindness. It's easy to use. Take a picture of anything you see. Try a book. Professor Juju recognizes it and suggests starting a book sharing club, reading to someone who feels lonely, or becoming a reading buddy. Try pizza. And Juju might suggest a neighborhood pizza gathering or a surprise delivery to thank someone nearby. A simple snack can become a real human moment. A stuffed bear can inspire a school share day or a kindness bear exchange. Shoes can lead to a compliment walk, spreading a happy thought with every step. The technology isn't perfect. Sometimes it gets an object wrong. We learn, improve, and always use our best judgment. What matters is what happens next. You put the phone away and bring one small act of kindness into the real world. America Smiles. See an object. Spark a connection.

Original official America Smiles Professor Juju artwork
Professor Juju

Keep the familiar voice and character.

Discover Professor Juju through the existing official video. Original voice and footage.

Watch the official Professor Juju video

Film

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