Breast cancer and GBV solidarity hike (13 Oct)

Together we walk, Together we fight: Join us for the breast cancer and GBV solidarity hike on 18th October

By Ruben Coetzee, Sports Science Institute, CHIPS Coordinator

Join us on Saturday, 18 October at Rhodes Memorial for a Breast Cancer and Saartjie Baartman / Blocktober Solidarity Hike. Come to https://maps.app.goo.gl/veT8o3AqhQut2tpt5

"Think Pink, Act Strong: Breast cancer awareness starts with you."

This year's CHIP's breast cancer awareness will join forces with Saartjie Baartman and Blocktober 

Breast Cancer October and CHIPs

The Community Health Intervention Programme (CHIP) is a dedicated community upliftment initiative by SSISA that focuses on promoting health through age-appropriate physical activity. With programs like OptiFit Outreach and HealthNutz, CHIP`s is scientifically designed and community-led, aiming to build healthier, more cohesive communities. For over 28 years, these initiatives have demonstrated how a positive attitude can transform lives, embodying the motto, "Changing your attitude changes your life." CHIP`s is committed to fostering a culture of wellness, empowerment, and lasting community impact through active engagement and health education.

Every October, our hearts beat a little faster with purpose and hope as we shine a spotlight on Breast Cancer awareness. For those of us involved with the Community Health Intervention Programme (CHIPs), this month is more than just a campaign—it's a heartfelt reminder of the resilience, courage, and unity that define our community.

Our journey is deeply personal. We carry the stories of members who are survivors, those who are in remission, and sadly, members we've lost along the way. Each story fuels our passion, reminding us that every step we take in awareness, every conversation we spark, and every community event we hold is a tribute to their strength and memory.

This year, our CHIP`s Outreach branches—spanning Kuils River, Delft, Elsies River, Matroosfontein, Grassy Park, Silvertown, and Athlone—are once again organizing impactful activities. From engaging awareness talks to community walks and weekly exercise programs, our goal remains unwavering: to educate, empower, and bring hope to those affected by breast cancer.

Breast cancer solidary walk with Saartjie Baartman and Blocktober

But this October, we’re taking our efforts a step further. On Saturday, October 18th, at 8 am, we invite everyone to join us for a Breast Cancer and GBV Solidarity Hike from Rhodes Memorial to the Block House. Come to this startign point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/veT8o3AqhQut2tpt5. This isn’t just a walk—it's a powerful act of unity, a symbol of our collective strength, and a stand against cancer and GBV.

And in the spirit of solidarity, this year’s hike is in collaboration with the Blocktober campaign, which aims to raise awareness and funds for the Saartjie Baartman Center for Women and Children, in support of survivors of gender-based violence. It’s a reminder that our fight against injustice and health disparities is intertwined, and together, we can make a difference. We will be joined on this walk by walkers from Saartjie Baartman and Blocktober.

Saartjie Baartman, CHIP`s, and Blocktober representatives meet to collaborate

Unite in hope

Whether you’re walking for breast cancer awareness or standing in support of victims of gender-based violence, your participation matters. Your steps, your voice, your presence—these are the catalysts for change.

Let’s unite in hope, in strength, and in love. Together, we can transform awareness into action and turn compassion into tangible support. Join us on October 18th—because when we walk together, we walk towards a healthier, safer, and more compassionate future.

Together We Walk, Together We Fight. Let’s make every step count.

Read other blogs in the series

October Walk Details in Cape Town

• Date: 14 October 16.30 pm
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 2 / 2.5hrs, 7.5km
• Tabelberg Rd route to Blockhouse: Click this PIN for starting point.
• Click here to join future walks.
• Record your walk, run, cycle or swim in support of Blocktober on Strava.