Learners and teachers of Orion College in Randpark Ridge gathered to participate in the 22nd annual CANSA Shavathon on April 12.
The event, with the theme ‘Be colourfully kind’, aimed to raise awareness and funds for people affected by cancer. Participants at the school were encouraged to spray colour onto their hair to show their support.
High school principal, Louis Buitendag, explained the school’s commitment to supporting CANSA, stating, “As Orion College, we want to support this initiative. It is not the first time we have participated in this event. We had a shavathon at the school last year as well.”
Buitendag also shared a heartfelt tribute to a staff member who had battled cancer. “A while ago, one of our staff members had cancer and she passed away in December. So, we did this to honour her as well. We also want to make the school and the community aware of cancer and what it does to families and individuals. That is why we support this initiative.”
The head of business development at CANSA, Elijah Masubelele, shared the significance of schools hosting shavathons in a statement. “While shopping malls provide us with wonderful platforms to host shavathon activities every year, we have also found that running individual events with companies, schools, and other organisations makes a significant positive impact on creating awareness and raising funds.”
Masubelele further explained the importance of the event in sharing key cancer-related messages. “CANSA Shavathon provides a great opportunity for organisations to run fun events that encourage teambuilding and volunteerism while also getting the serious key cancer-related messages across.”
Funds raised through the CANSA Shavathon go towards providing education and screening initiatives, as well as care and support services to cancer patients and their loved ones. Additionally, the funds contribute towards pop-up clinics that offer cancer screening, lifestyle risk assessments, and educational cancer awareness programmes.
Related articles: Orion College has a colourful time at its Cansa Shavathon
