The name, Refilwe, means: ‘We are given’, and Sedumedi translates to: ‘Believer in Christ’. Together, they seem to define the life of Refilwe ‘Fifi’ Sedumedi, a 48-year-old Diepsloot woman who has been tested by life, yet continues to stand as a living symbol of faith, resilience, and grace.

From surviving breast cancer and living with a bullet lodged in her neck after an attempted hijacking, to conquering Mount Everest Base Camp, Sedumedi has faced every challenge with courage that mirrors the strength of her name and surname.

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She is also the author of Reflection of a True Survivor, and founder of the Sedumedi Hope Foundation, which she uses to embody the resilience and compassion in her work within the Diepsloot community.

Later this month, on October 25, Sedumedi, and her foundation, will host their annual Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign at the Sasol Garage in Diepsloot, a day dedicated to spreading hope, education, and unity among survivors and supporters alike.

“It’s an annual programme of the Sedumedi Hope Foundation, because October is breast cancer awareness month. We continue raising awareness and educating our community about regular check-ups, screenings, self-examination, and healthy living.

The strong message is that cancer is not a death sentence, and it doesn’t discriminate.”

Over the years, Sedumedi’s witnessed countless lives changed by these events.

“Changing the lives of recently diagnosed fighters gives me strength. Some of them tell me: ‘If it was not for your event and your words of encouragement, I don’t think I would’ve made it’. We’ve lost some soldiers along the way, but we continue to soldier on.”

Sedumedi said her mission goes far beyond breast cancer awareness. She said it’s about showing others how to turn adversity into purpose.

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“It’s not easy, but accepting your challenges, and navigating how to survive, is key. Giving up is not an option. You go through trials and tribulations so that one day you can share your story and say: ‘God is able’.

At that moment of darkness, you think your life is a mess, but if you allow God, He can turn that mess into a message to change lives.”

Sedumedi hopes to see stronger partnerships between civil society, businesses, and government in fighting breast cancer, especially in under-resourced communities like Diepsloot.

“Together, we can do more and raise awareness at schools, women’s gatherings, local churches, and clinics.”

Attendees are advised to bring a towel or mat for yoga, amongst other activities, and sanitary towels, or any other donations, to assist the girl child.

“We have pink goodies, including t-shirts, caps, bandanas, personalised bracelets with messages, etc, for the fundraising event.”

Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in pink and white, colours that symbolise hope and solidarity.
For more details contact 081 571 2677.

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