Throughout October, Campus and Community (C&C) organized a comprehensive series of initiatives designed to promote breast cancer awareness and community health. These activities highlighted KAUST’s commitment to community well-being and aligned with the social responsibility goals of Vision 2030. 

Free Screenings 

In collaboration with IMC and the Thuwal clinic, KAUST Health offered free screenings for women over 40 and those at high risk. Over 150 women from KAUST and nearby villages participated, showcasing strong community engagement in health initiatives. 

Awareness Sessions 

Awareness sessions held at Thuwal School and the Nesma Embroidery Center attracted over 250 attendees, including residents, teachers, and representatives from local associations. These sessions focused on the importance of early detection and provided valuable health information. 

Run for a Cure 

The month-long activities culminated in the vibrant 'Run for a Cure' event held on Saturday, October 26.  Over 500 runners and walkers participated to raise awareness, celebrate survivors, and support the Zahra Breast Cancer Association, underscoring their crucial message of early detection with the hashtag #OneStepAhead. A portion of the proceeds from the race was donated to the  Zahra Breast Cancer Association to further their efforts in supporting breast cancer patients.  

Participants were from the KAUST community and from local organizations, including the Jeddah Running Club, MASAR, and Masfat SA, alongside sponsor Unilever, which had over 25 employees join the race.  

Noor Balfaqeeh, Head of Corporate Affairs and Communications & Wellbeing Lead, GCC, shared, “At Unilever, the wellbeing of our employees and the community is at the heart of everything we do. Our participation in the 'Run for a Cure' exemplifies our commitment to raising awareness about critical health issues like breast cancer. This collaboration with KAUST not only highlights the importance of this cause but also allowed our Lifebuoy brand to promote good hygiene through handwashing facilities for participants.”  

The run featured three categories—10K, 5K, and a 3K walk—set against the picturesque backdrop of the Red Sea. The race village buzzed with activities, with Decathlon, the official event partner, providing fitness-related engagements for participants of all ages. More than 45 dedicated volunteers from the KAUST community played vital roles in organizing runners' packs, leading the races, and offering support to ensure a successful event.  

Photos 

Photos from the event are now uploaded on the Campus and Community Flickr account. 

Please check them here. 

Race Results: 

There were 2 timed events: the 5k and 10k and in each race there were 3 categories: 

We had an amazing range of performances from different running clubs such as Beach to Beacon, Jeddah Running Community, Masafat, and Masara. A big congratulations goes to the below fastest times: 

Click here to see full race results.  

Event Partners  

Thank you to our sponsor Unilever and Sabic and event partners - Beach to Beacon, Al Khozama Hotel & Residences, Decathlon, Coastline, KAUST Health, IMC, Tamimi, DJ Toluwa, and the Zahra Breast Cancer Association for making this event and activities possible.  

 This initiative not only fosters community spirit but also aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goal of increasing public participation in sports and promoting health and well-being, resonating with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.