In 2013, Australian social entrepreneur Elliot Costello met a young girl named Thea while visiting an orphanage in Cambodia. Just 10 years old, Thea had already faced more challenges than most people encounter in a lifetime—losing her father and experiencing hardship in a place that was supposed to provide safety. Yet, despite everything, she radiated kindness and strength.
One evening, during a quiet moment of connection, Thea playfully painted one of Elliot’s fingernails. It was such a simple act, but for Elliot, it carried deep meaning. In that instant, he made a personal promise: he would keep one nail painted as a reminder of Thea and of children everywhere who deserve protection and care.That moment inspired the creation of Polished Man, a global movement dedicated to supporting children. The campaign invites men to paint a single fingernail, symbolizing the 1 in 5 children worldwide who experience hardship during their early years.
What began as a tribute to Thea became a powerful way to spark conversations, raise awareness, and inspire positive change.Since its launch, Polished Man has grown into an international fundraising platform. The campaign has raised more than $8.7 million to support programs that provide safe spaces, education, healing, and long-term prevention for children in need. Public figures like Chris Hemsworth, Zac Efron, and Kelly Slater have joined in, proudly painting a nail to show their solidarity.
Today, that single painted nail has become more than a symbol—it’s a global statement of hope and responsibility. It honors children like Thea, reminds communities of the importance of care, and calls on us all to protect the next generation. From one small act of kindness grew a movement that continues to shine a light on what truly matters: every child deserves safety, dignity, and love.