Colgate’s Optimism Project

Colgate has rolled out  the Colgate Optimism Project, a new national campaign focused on championing individuals who “are putting optimism into action and building a future we can all smile about.”

The Colgate Optimism Project will identify people who are working on projects to improve the world and provide valuable mentorship and coaching from experts in optimism, business and entrepreneurship, as well as the possibility to secure grant funding to help actualize and further their ideas, noted the oral care brand.

As part of the program, Colgate is partnering with experts such as Dr. Deepika Chopra, who will help inform ways everyone can take optimism in action—as well as lead virtual workshops for Colgate Optimism Project members before the end of the year. Special guest speakers will be John Burns (entrepreneur and co-founder of Icon Talks) and Jonah Stillman(Gen Z expert) who will share how they're harnessing the power of optimism to create positive change and help members amplify their projects.  

According to a national study conducted by Colgate, Americans are struggling to stay positive. Gen Z, those under age 24 and who are one of the biggest and most diverse segments of the population, are the most pessimistic of any age group. However, a majority of Gen Z would like to adopt a more optimistic attitude. In fact, when asked, 8 in 10 believe they have the power to choose optimism and put optimism into action supporting their desire and willingness to change and make an impact. Still, despite their increased desire to choose optimism, members of Gen Z  have fewer opportunities to put optimism in action, according to the study. In fact, this year, three quarters of Gen Z Americans forfeited major life opportunities (education, career, collaboration) and more than 80 percent report having zero opportunities to work together to make an impact in their communities, despite three quarters believing it's important to do so.

“Facing such uncertainty in our daily lives, it's hard for many people to overcome negative feelings. We believe optimism is our best defense to defeat pessimism and improve our world,” said Dana Medema, general manager of oral care in North America. “Optimism drives progress. A smile can trigger a complete change in outlook. Importantly, a healthy smile is also important to your overall health, protecting us from systemic diseases and other problems. In many ways, it is 'a smile a day that will keep the doctor away.'”

“Clinical research shows optimism can have a positive impact on mental and physical health and that optimism is a muscle that we can learn how to strengthen every day through our actions,” said Dr.  Chopra. “Although Gen Z has encountered considerable setbacks, research shows they believe optimism is a choice. During this unprecedented year, it's especially vital to celebrate and champion optimists who have taken the initiative to develop ideas that positively impact others.”

If you are interested in being a member of the Colgate Optimism Project, submit your application here: https://smiles.colgate.com/page/content/optimism-project