To create awareness about breast cancer, the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Gender Forum held its annual Fun Walk on Friday, 26 October at Curries Fountain Sports Ground.

Attended mostly by DUT Staff, the 2.5km walk went through Winterton Walk, following a route along ML Sultan Road, through to John Zikhali Road, and Edith Benson Crescent before ending off at Curries Fountain Sports Ground.

Highlighting the significance of the event, DUT Gender Forum Chairperson, Dr Rosaline Govender said the fun walk goes beyond creating awareness since it also promotes a healthy lifestyle.

“The cancer awareness Fun Walk raises attentiveness regarding cancer, especially with regards to getting tested for breast cancer which is prevalent in males and females. We also use this event to encourage the staff to get fit. We all have stressful lives and we feel that exercise is very important,” said Dr Govender.

The Fun Walk began with a warm-up session which was provided by Zulu Transformers, – a group of bodybuilders that aims to help people change their lifestyle by introducing a detailed and functional method of training using just bodyweight training, callisthenics and street workouts.

According to Zulu Transformers PR Liaison, Carissa Agyei, initiatives such as breast cancer awareness are important as they help people with the correct information. “Many people lack information and I feel that awareness provides that information on preventative methods that you can use to avoid such things. One of the things which we all know, is exercise and eating right is important,” said Agyei.

The first place in the men’s category was won by Jaya Naidoo, Senior Lecturer: Hospitality and Tourism, while the first place in the women’s category was won by Gender Forum Assistant Admin, Xolile Xaba.

Having taken the first place in the men’s category for the sixth consecutive year, Naidoo said the Breast Cancer Awareness Fun Walk is the highlight of the Gender Forum calendar.

“This is an event that I always look forward to. Although my work takes me far and wide, I always make it my duty to come and take part in this event. I try and keep fit as far as possible and it is indeed my sixth consecutive win.  All I can say is that in today’s time, it is very important to maintain a balanced life,” said Naidoo.

During the Fun Walk, a number of the awareness participants won prizes through lucky draws.

Pictured: Gender Forum Executive Committee members with the lucky draw winners.

Sandile Lukhozi