Marking the international month for breast cancer awareness, Sharjah’s Economic Excellence Network (shjSEEN), launched an art exhibition, dubbed “Pinktober”, today.  The innovative event, in line with international commemorations across the world every October, aims to increase attention and support for the awareness, early detection and treatment, as well as palliative care of this disease, mainly among the female community.    

The event saw the strong participation of major officials, with the opening ceremony attended by HE Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), as well as HE Khalid Bin Butti Al-Hajri, Director General of SCCI, along with Nada Al Hajri, General Coordinator of shjSEEN

The exhibition, set to run until November 3^rd, was also attended by a number of officials from the Chamber and the Network, as well as the public, who took part in the artistic and entertainment activities.

For His part, Al Owais vowed that SCCI along with ShjSEEN, will work tirelessly to improve the level of education of the disease, which according to Al Owais, will help spearhead the breast cancer awareness movement in the UAE. 

SCCI’s Chairman also assured that the chamber will continue to support awareness campaigns, through various channels.

Describing them as “Half of the Society”, Al Owais called on the female community to spare no effort in educating themselves over this alarming issue.

Al Owais also explained that the exhibition, organized by shjSEEN, also aims to highlight on humanitarian issues and preserve community values, through using various art techniques. HE also said the campaign is to raise awareness about the importance of regular and early screenings to help avoid the risks of breast cancer, describing early detection as the "corner stone" on the path to fight against the deadly disease.

Meanwhile, Nada Al-Hajri, said that in recent years, females across the UAE have become more aware about the importance of regular and early screening to help avoid the risks of breast cancer.

Al-Hajri continued, “Early diagnosis of the disease is essential, given it provides enough treatment time for the patient, and minimizes psychological and social burdens caused by the worsening of the illness and the complications that follow.”

During the opening ceremony, artistic paintings and Graffiti drawing were put on display, presented by the well-known and internationally recognized artist, Saeed Arjumand, along with Marian Al-Zoabi, Khalodiz, Dina Al-Saadoun, Dimitri Karbonov, who showcased their graffiti drawings - scribbled, scratched, or painted illicitly for the public.

Saeed Arjumand, who lost a family member due to breast cancer, highlighted his overwhelming delight to be part of this important event, adding that awareness of the disease is one of the most essential factors that contribute to combating and eradicating it. He also described the event as a “vital step” on the path to reducing the risks of breast cancer, and publicizing the importance of early detection.

Also, a charitable auction, selling art collectibles and antiques, will be held at the venue, with the participation of numerous fashion designers.

In addition, companies and institutions in support of the campaign will take part in the event, including: The Pink Caravan Campaign, Nivea, Zulekha Hospital, Velvet Magazine, Ghawa Gahwa, IGGI, Touk Al-Yasmeen Flowers & chocolates, 320 Natural Cosmetics, Jamba Juice, Ghanag Beauty Cener, SOH, and Cold Press Juice company.

In support of the campaign, the Chamber’s building lit pink. It also announced the launch of media awareness campaigns, through broadcasting messages and posts via the social media, in order to reach out to the largest number of females in the society, and spread the message.