Breast cancer survivor, wife, mother of three and digital creator Vasti-May Gradwell will share her story at an upcoming local fundraiser supporting Project Flamingo.
The pink-themed event is being organised by Nasarah Williams-Witbooi, owner of Inside Out Pop-Up Picnics. It will bring women and men together to celebrate survivors, remember those who have lost their lives and raise awareness about the importance of early detection.
A survivor’s story of strength
As the event’s main speaker, Gradwell will add a deeply personal voice to the conversations around diagnosis, treatment, resilience and life after breast cancer.
In addition to being a survivor, Gradwell is a wife, mother of three, digital creator and traveller. She and Williams-Witbooi first crossed paths while studying nursing, making her involvement in the fundraiser especially meaningful.
Her story will help remind guests that behind every diagnosis is a person, a family and an emotional journey that deserves understanding and support.
A return with purpose
The fundraiser also marks Williams-Witbooi’s return to hosting events after taking a break to reflect on why she started creating community gatherings.
“Taking a break from hosting events gave me time to step back and reflect on why I started doing events in the first place,” she says.
“Having a breast cancer event is something that I have been wanting to do since March 2023. I kept putting it off because life happens, but also because I needed it to make sense. It wasn’t simply about putting together another event. It had a deeper purpose.”
Breast cancer affects countless individuals and families, but Williams-Witbooi believes there is still more to be said about awareness, early detection, support and the emotional journey that follows a diagnosis.
“I wanted to create an event that celebrates women and men, honours survivors, remembers those we have lost and reminds people that they are not alone.”
Raising awareness and supporting Project Flamingo
The event aims to welcome around 110 guests while raising funds and awareness for Project Flamingo.
Project Flamingo supports breast cancer patients by helping them access treatment and providing assistance during an incredibly difficult period in their lives.
Williams-Witbooi says the response to the event has already been emotional and encouraging.
“It honestly feels overwhelming in the best possible way.”
Local sponsors are invited to support the fundraiser, while vendors will also form part of the day. This gives businesses and community members an opportunity to contribute to a cause that affects families across South Africa.
A day of connection and celebration
Guests can expect entertainment, local vendors, a light meal, treats and gift bags, all tied together with a pink theme.
Although the day has been designed to be enjoyable, its message remains at the heart of the programme.
“My biggest hope is that people leave having been touched in some way,” Williams-Witbooi says.
“I want guests to have fun and enjoy themselves, but I also want them to leave more aware. I want them to understand the importance of checking themselves, knowing their bodies and encouraging the men and women they love to do the same.”
Most importantly, Williams-Witbooi wants every guest to leave feeling supported, inspired and connected.
Tickets cost R250 per person. To book or enquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact 078 555 9955.
Leave a Reply