KINGSTON, Jamaica—The AUBYN Foundation and JK Breast Cancer Foundation have joined forces in an effort to help 1,000 Jamaican women access breast cancer screenings and diagnostic services, staging the Women With a Purpose 5K Run/Walk & Breakfast Party in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth, on Sunday, October 18.

The initiative, held in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, brought together participants, corporate sponsors and community supporters to raise awareness about early detection while promoting greater access to essential breast health services.

The event got underway with a fitness warm-up at 6:00 am, followed by a 5K run and walk through the Treasure Beach community at 6:30 am.

Following the race, participants gathered at Island Time Bar & Grill, located beside Jakes Hotel, for a breakfast party featuring food, refreshments and entertainment.

The Jamaica Tourist Board also supported the initiative, providing a dedicated recovery area where participants received complimentary sports massages following the run.

For Janet Kaloo, founder of the JK Breast Cancer Foundation and a 13-year breast cancer survivor, the initiative holds personal significance.

Drawing on her own experience, Kaloo has continued to advocate for greater awareness of breast health and the importance of early detection, particularly among women who may face challenges accessing screening services.

“As a breast cancer survivor, I understand how important it is for women to take their health seriously,” Kaloo said.

“Through Women With a Purpose, we want to help more women access screening services and encourage them to take the necessary steps towards early detection. Our goal of helping 1,000 women is important, and we are grateful to everyone who has joined us in supporting this effort.”

The Women With a Purpose 5K Run/Walk & Breakfast Party in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth.

Meanwhile, Aubyn Henry, social entrepreneur, philanthropist and executive chairman of the AUBYN Foundation, underscored the importance of ensuring that women have access to the healthcare services they need.

“Mothers play an invaluable role in our families and communities, and their health must never be overlooked,” Henry said.

“Women give so much of themselves to caring for others, and it is equally important that they have the opportunity to care for themselves.”

He added that the initiative also seeks to encourage greater involvement from families and communities in supporting women’s health.

“We want to help more women access the screenings and care they need, while encouraging families and communities to support them in prioritising their well-being.

“We are proud to work alongside the JK Breast Cancer Foundation towards our goal of helping Jamaican women access breast cancer screenings and diagnostic services more efficiently,” Henry said.

The event received support from several corporate and community partners, including AUBYN Capital, Canvas Pro, Events Done Pat, Island Time Grill, Bar & Gifts, Jakes Hotel Treasure Beach, the Jamaica Tourist Board, Lashings Art Hotel & Beach Club, Miss Universe St Elizabeth, Manchester & Clarendon, PlutoPrint.net, Powerade, Sagicor, The Breds Treasure Beach, The Media Centre, Treasure Bay Estates and WATA.

With breast cancer remaining a significant public health concern in Jamaica, both foundations are hoping the initiative will encourage more women to prioritise regular screenings and seek medical attention when necessary.

Beyond the day’s activities, the organisers are seeking to build continued support for their goal of assisting 1,000 Jamaican women with access to breast cancer screening and diagnostic services.

The foundations say their collaboration reflects a shared commitment to women’s health, early detection and removing barriers that may prevent women from accessing potentially life-saving healthcare services.