"A simple test will save your breast." That was the phrase that paid off on Wednesday for VOC online listener, Bilqees Salie who also submitted a second slogan for the Global Pink Hijab Day project which VOC initiated with the Cancer Association of South Africa to raise awareness on breast cancer. The slogan won her a five stone diamond ring valued at R5,000, courtesy of Harris Jewellers and recieved almost 49.5% of the vote from 103 onliners polled over 24 hours.
Her second slogan "Hope my hijab in pink makes you think", took 22.3% of the vote, having been two of the four finalists the VOC panel picked on Monday as among the best slogans received to describe the awareness drive. Aliwia Jattiem's "Think pink and let's form a breast cancer link" picked up 8.7% of the vote while Sakeena Boch's slogan "Cover up in pink to put cancer on the blink" took 19.4% of the vote.
Meanwhile, a wave of marshmallow pink was visible from Vanguard Drive on Wednesday as some 300 - 500 women joined hands to form a human chain on Global Pink Hijab day. The event, hosted by VOC and Cansa, aimed to raise awareness on breast cancer, an illness that affects one in 27 women in South Africa. The pilot project, initiated by VOC journalist Aisha Mouneimne called on all Muslim women to don a pink hijab and educate themselves on the importance of early detection.
“Pink is the new black,” said one enthusiastic Muslim woman, clad in pink from head to toe, and waving to all motorists passing by. “I feel the least I could do was to be part of this human chain. Alhamdullilah, I have not been affected by cancer, but who knows, I could be next.”
About 20 tiny-tots from the Habibia nursery school, all dressed in pink, also showed their support for the event. Classroom teacher, Mymona Sayed, said the event was an experience the learners enjoyed and a lesson which would be constantly emphasized. “Even though they are very young, we believe teaching them about various diseases such as breast cancer is important. Young children are like sponges and the earlier they understand the reality of cancer and the importance of cancer awareness, the more they will be informed,” she said.
A train of pink “hijabified” women lined up at Cansa's mobile clinic, which offered free breast examinations to all women on site. “I came out here today to get myself checked for breast cancer. Two of my sisters have passed away with cancer so it has affected me directly. I believe it is important that women check themselves regularly,” said 52 year old Mymoena.
“I am glad I am taking part in this awareness drive. We as women and mothers often neglect ourselves and I believe we need to take a more pro-active approach towards our health. This is small and valuable step in doing so,” echoed 45 year old Shaheeda Davids.
A coy Auntie Nabeweya, 79 years of age, said she was pleased that she had attended and had taken the opportunity to get herself checked. “When I came here, I was a bit scared. This is something I have wanted to do, but have never had the courage. I am very happy that I came here today. Shukran to VOC for making this happen,” she said.
Another ardent supporter, Najmuniesa Abrahams, said more awareness initiatives were needed to highlight the importance of early detection of breast cancer. She called on all Muslim women to take the step to get themselves checked.
“Considering how VOC aggressively marketed this campaign, I am disappointed that more people did not turn up. Our women need to realise that cancer, be it breast cancer or any other form, largely affects the Muslim community. I believe that more awareness campaigns of this nature needs to be taken to the communities that need it the most,” she said, adding: “Cape Town women – get yourself checked, sooner rather than later. I applaud VOC for taking this bold step. This initiative can only grow from strength to strength – Inshallah.” VOC (Tasneem Mohamed)
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