Hillbrow CPF Marks Women’s Day with Cancer Awareness Drive

By Thembi Moyo

The Hillbrow community marked Women’s Day this year with a strong message on health and safety, hosting a special cancer awareness event that brought together residents, stakeholders and local organisations. The initiative was inspired by the recent passing of a family member to cancer, which motivated community members to create a space for education, prevention and early detection.

The gathering was organised under the Hillbrow Community Policing Forum (CPF) and Zanele Nyembe ward 62 councillor, in partnership with various stakeholders including Hillbrow SAPS, Hillbrow Radio Station, Hillbrow Clinic, Bad Boyz Security, GBV Brigades, Lifeline, Social Crime Prevention, Flames of Hope, Home Affairs and Social Development. Gifts for attendees came from Social Crime Prevention and Flames of Hope, who presented women with beautiful handbags to brighten their day, while food was generously sponsored by Hillbrow Spar, Bruce Street Butchery and Bad Boyz Security.

While Women’s Day celebrations in Hillbrow are an annual tradition, this year’s event had an added purpose to raise awareness about the dangers of late-stage cancer and to encourage the community to take advantage of free screenings at local clinics. Health professionals on the day reminded residents that cancer is far easier to treat when detected early and urged women to prioritise regular check-ups, even if they feel healthy.

The programme also addressed other important safety and social issues. Johannesburg Metropolitan Police officers spoke about personal safety, encouraging women to remain alert when travelling, especially in e-hailing services, to carry pepper spray, and to share their whereabouts with trusted contacts. They also advised parents to stay in close communication with their children to help detect potential problems early.

The Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS), based in Braamfontein, explained the process of reporting rape and abuse cases, emphasising the importance of doing so within 72 hours to preserve evidence. They also reminded residents that missing persons cases should be reported immediately rather than waiting.

Community advocate Sibusiso Mabuza urged parents to be attentive and supportive, to set a good example for their children, and to maintain open conversations about both emotional and financial matters. He stressed that knowing a child’s emotional state can help parents detect when something is wrong, and encouraged participation in school activities and homework support.

Medical professionals at the event highlighted the most common cancers affecting women in South Africa, including breast, cervical and colorectal cancer. They warned against ignoring signs such as unusual lumps, unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, abnormal bleeding, changes to the skin or moles and ongoing fatigue. Attendees were given practical prevention advice, including maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly and being aware of their family’s cancer history.

The event closed with a sense of unity and determination. Organisers said this year’s Women’s Day served as a reminder that education, prevention and community support are powerful tools in the fight against cancer, and that health and safety remain at the heart of a strong and resilient Hillbrow.