International Women’s Day (IWD) is a period we celebrate the courage, resilience, and unwavering determination of women who stand against the odds as women.
Among the many battles women face, cancer remains one of the most preventable yet devastating diseases, often taking lives due to misinformation, stigma, and limited healthcare access.
Through the Angie Courage Award, 4 Communities by Communities (4CbyC) sheds light on powerful stories of women and communities fighting for early detection, prevention, and improved healthcare.
These narratives highlight the critical role of grassroots action, education, and advocacy in breaking the cycle of fear and silence surrounding cervical cancer.
From Ene’s desperate search for answers in a rural village to Jennifer’s tragic struggle against late-stage cancer, their stories underscore the urgent need for awareness, accessible medical care, and HPV vaccination.
As we reflect on their experiences, we renew our commitment to ensuring that no woman suffers in silence and that every community has the resources to fight preventable diseases.
These stories are more than personal battles—they are calls to action.
The project was organised by 4CbyC under the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in partnership with Pinktober, Salihoe Foundation and Femme Health.
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Salihoe Foundation fight Cervical cancer by : Establishing a Free Cervical cancer screening centre for screening, treatment and follow-ups; raise awareness through TV, Radio Schools and community events as well as distribute educational materials in major local languages to prevent stigma and encourage early detection.
“At Femme Health the digital approach ensures that no woman is left behind regardless of her location or backgrounds. FemmeHealth’s Initiatives are rooted in empathy and innovation” said the Director, FemmeHealth, Oludimu Kemi Success
The 4CbyC Team was led by Prof. Juliet Iwelunmor of Washington University, Saint Louis, a passionate advocate for health equity and sustainability is widely regarded for understanding how to make evidence-based interventions last, reshaping the focus on community engagement using participatory research, and improving the dissemination of health information.
“Overall, thru innovation, education and community support, the project continues to drive meaningful change in the fight against cancer, this is only achievable thru collective efforts and unwavering commitment” said Prof. Iwelunmor.