Fozia's story

It’s those values that have shaped who I am today – someone who never quite fits into one box, which I’m proud of. My friends and family would describe me as a giver, outspoken and never afraid to speak up for what’s right.

It’s so important that we challenge stigma around breast cancer

That means engaging men with awareness messaging. I know how important early detection, education and support are, especially in communities where breast cancer can still be misunderstood or spoken about too quietly.

I work in a sector that is dominated by males. And while breast cancer affects more women than men, I’m equally passionate that the message about breast cancer gets across to them as well. Whilst rare, the disease can and does affect men too. And it’s important that we spread awareness so they know what to do and can support their partners and themselves.

People came for the cake. But they stayed to learn more once we got chatting.

Food always draws a crowd, so we brought in lots of pink cakes, and they didn’t disappoint! The minute the cake arrived, so did the people, and suddenly we had a room full of curious colleagues ready to talk, learn and donate.

We set up a table in the canteen using the decorations from the fundraising pack, so our kitchen area was very pink and loud. It was impossible to miss. Colleagues stopped by to read the literature, ask questions and donate whatever loose change they had. It was simple, eye-catching and effective.

Our pink hard hats offered more than just protection

They became a symbol and an important conversation starter. The best part was seeing male colleagues engaging without embarrassment. We purchased pink hard hats so our team could go out on site and talk about breast cancer openly.

The pink hard hat became a symbol. It represented our passion for the cause and opened the door to meaningful conversations.

The resources in the fundraising pack are very pink – in the best way possible – and the leaflet visuals make the message simple, clear and easy to understand. They really helped people learn without feeling overwhelmed.