Pink Chai unites communities in the fight against breast cancer

A groundbreaking national campaign, Pink Chai, has gained widespread recognition across the South Asian community and beyond by blending cultural connection with a powerful message about breast cancer awareness and care.

Aimed at encouraging early detection and open conversations around breast cancer, the initiative was launched at the beginning of October by the Henna Foundation in partnership with Upturn and Amana Foundation.  

It began after a group of volunteers, along with doctors and nurses, visited Bangladesh in January to help women spot the signs of breast cancer. 

The three groups invited organisations to host a Pink Chai Moment for staff, clients, or community partners, share stories, photos, and messages on their social media platforms and collect donations for the special cause.

Pictured: The Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Eddie Moores at one of the Pink Chai events.

Muzahid Khan MBE DL, one of the volunteers, explained: “The Pink Chai campaign was primarily launched to raise awareness of breast cancer within the South Asian community, but it has now stretched to all communities. 

“During these events, women learn about how to spot the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and to help break the stigma attached to it and the idea was launched after the trip we had to Bangladesh.” 

The name Pink Chai was inspired by the symbolism of the pink ribbon – a sign of care and awareness – and the South Asian tradition of sharing a warm cup of chai. It was created as a fusion of culture and compassion. 

Pictured: Some of the guests at a Pink Chai day.

The Pink Chai events have been taking place throughout the country, with many local groups including the Women’s Chai project and Cindy’s cafe in Grains Bar also hosting them. 

Muzahid added: “It has gone massively beyond expectation as we were looking at hosting three or four Pink Chai events, but now we have groups separately hosting 30 to 40 all over the country. 

“There was also the Pink Gala Dinner at the Eastern Pavilion restaurant attended by 200 people including the Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Eddie Moores and Mayoress Kath Moores, along with Mayor of Tameside, Councillor Shibley Alam, to raise awareness of breast cancer, where we had an auction raising £1,200.”