Women’s walk for wellness: A 5km journey for cancer awareness

The fight against cancer took centre stage when scores of women, survivors, and supporters gathered at Westridge Gardens for the annual Women’s Walk for Wellness “Strides for Cancer” 5km awareness walk on Thursday, October 30.

Organised by the non-profit Women’s Walk for Wellness, the event saw nearly 200 participants dressed in shades of pink, turning the park into a vibrant sea of hope and solidarity. The morning was alive with singing, dancing, and heartfelt messages — all dedicated to those currently battling cancer, the survivors who inspire others, and the families who have lost loved ones to the disease.

Founder and team leader Shinaaz Adjiet, a familiar face in community outreach, said the event aimed not only to promote prevention and early detection but also to honour those who have succumbed to cancer. 

“We walk today to remember those we’ve lost, to celebrate those who have beaten cancer, and to remind everyone that early detection saves lives,” Ms Adjiet said.

“Our goal is to give hope. Cancer can be beaten. Those who are struggling should not lose faith — that is why we are here, to raise funds and provide the necessary support”.

The Women’s Walk for Wellness has become known across Mitchell’s Plain as an “angel of hope,” extending its work far beyond cancer awareness. Over the years, the organisation has served the broader community through initiatives that assist the elderly, support destitute families, and provide aid to underprivileged children.

During Thursday’s walk, participants carried banners with messages of encouragement and wore pink ribbons to symbolise solidarity in the global fight against cancer. Despite the serious cause, the mood was one of joy and determination. Walkers completed the 5km route, celebrating the achievement with music, dancing, and a renewed sense of community spirit.

Sinah Coetzee, a cancer survivor who attended the walk, praised the NPO for its tireless efforts.

“The Women’s Walk for Wellness is truly an angel of hope for many of us,” she said.

“Their compassion, energy, and commitment to helping others have touched countless lives in Mitchell’s Plain. They remind us that no one has to face this journey alone”.

Also among the participants was Rudi Abrahams from Walking Football 4 Health, an organisation which promotes fitness and well-being through sport. He said his group was proud to stand in partnership with Women’s Walk for Wellness and to show support for those affected by cancer.

“Through partnerships like these, we can bring comfort and strength to people who feel hopeless,” he said. “May those who are ill find healing, and may our communities continue to unite to overcome this challenge”.

 As the final group crossed the finish line, there was no grand ceremony, just smiles, hugs, and a shared sense of victory.