Community colours for courage
The Shavathon continues to grow each year, bringing the community together for a cause that puts health and well-being first.
The community came together on Friday, November 21, at Ruimsig Shopping Centre for the annual Cansa Shavathon, hosted by LBC Professional Services as part of its social responsibility programme. All proceeds from the event went directly to Cansa, supporting cancer awareness and research.
At the event, adults could get their hair sprayed with colour or shaved for R50 and children for R25, with Cansa merchandise also available for purchase.
“This is a family-friendly event where the focus is on supporting those affected by cancer and promoting public health,” the general manager at LBC, Gabby van Zyl, explained.
The Choc Foundation joined the Shavathon to raise awareness for childhood cancer, while Xchange Health provided free health screenings for the public. Visitors could have their hearing, vision, lung function, and vital signs checked and take part in a Preventive Health Awareness Campaign.
According to Gabby, this is the second year LBC has hosted the Cansa Shavathon.
“In 2023, we participated in the Movember Challenge among colleagues and nearby businesses to raise funds, and in 2024, we ran Cupcakes for Kids with Cancer, where we raised R4 000 for the Choc Foundation. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference,” she said.
“We believe in uplifting the community and giving back – not only to cancer sufferers or survivors, but also to create awareness of this disease. Many of us have a personal connection to this cause, and supporting a worthy initiative like this helps us contribute to both the Cancer Association of South Africa and the Choc Foundation,” Gabby said.
She also added that this is an opportunity to bring the community together, support research, and raise awareness and that they want to make a meaningful difference for people and families affected by cancer.
“And we have bigger plans for the 2026 Cansa Shavathon,” Gabby said.
In addition to health activities, the Shavathon offered treats like boerie rolls and refreshments, and the music playing through the speakers created a relaxed and supportive atmosphere for families who were visiting the shopping centre and drew them to the event.
