Thank you, Roger!
For over a decade, one person has had a unique yet lasting impact on what Make Me Smile International is today.
Now the organization is facing a significant leadership transition: After three and a half years as Managing Director, Roger Winandy is stepping down from his operational role.
Roger first joined us as a volunteer in 2012 and, over the next four years, helped develop the Make Me Smile Festival—long before he could have imagined one day leading the organization. Over the years, his commitment remained unwavering, and eventually he took on the role of Managing Director, a position he has now held for three and a half years.
Reflecting on his journey, Roger shared:
“It has been one of the most beautiful and intense chapters of my life, and it has been more than an honor to work alongside such amazing minds to help create something as meaningful as Make Me Smile. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey – our team, volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters.”
During his time, Roger carried out a comprehensive restructuring of Make Me Smile: he strengthened the organization’s foundations, refined its working methods, and prepared it for sustainable, long-term impact. It is the kind of work that doesn’t always make headlines, but upon which everything else is built. Roger has now decided to step down as Managing Director and move on to his next chapter.
As Roger steps away from the day-to-day leadership, he is not saying goodbye. He will remain a member of our Board and continue supporting Make Me Smile as an advisor, ensuring that his knowledge, experience, and commitment remain an important part of our journey.
We’d like to take this opportunity to say:
Thank you, Roger, for your vision, leadership, and dedication over the past 13 years. We are grateful for everything you have contributed and look forward to continuing this journey together in a new way.
Make Me Smile wouldn’t be what it is today without you, and we’re infinitely grateful that you’ll continue to stay close to us as an advisor and board member.
Donation Account Austria
Make Me Smile International
IBAN: AT532011182968868700
BIC: GIBAATWWXXX
Donation Account Switzerland
Make Me Smile International
IBAN: CH53 0873 3045 2887 5615 0
BIC: BKTHCH22XXX
Donation Account Luxembourg
Make Me Smile International a.s.b.l.
IBAN: LU21 0030 1953 2093 0000
BIC: BGLLLULL
Donation Account Germany
Make Me Smile International e.V.
IBAN: DE06 8306 5408 0004 2374 80
BIC: GENO DEF1 SLR