Earlier this month, we were invited to lead a breast cancer awareness workshop at Isomo Academy, a program for Rwandan students hosted at Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village. We spent the afternoon with an incredible group of students, focusing on equipping them with accurate information, practical tools, and the confidence to become advocates in their own communities.​
​We started by breaking down some of the most common myths about breast cancer. Many communities often believe that breast cancer only affects older women, or that it can be caused by physical injury, tight bras, or even bad luck. We took time to unpack each of these misconceptions and talk honestly about what breast cancer is, how it develops, and why early detection matters.
Next, we led a hands-on session on how to perform a breast self-exam using balloons as practice models. This exercise helped make a sensitive topic feel more approachable. Students asked thoughtful questions and quickly grasped how regular self-checks can play a role in catching signs early.
​
One of the most moving parts of the day was a presentation by Warrior Megsie, a breast cancer survivor and the Program Director at the SHARE Network. She shared her personal story and spoke about what it means to live through diagnosis and treatment.
We then shifted into a conversation on prevention and risk factors, touching on the importance of nutrition, physical activity, and knowing your family history. I answered questions about symptoms, treatment options, and how breast cancer connects to other health conditions.
Toward the end of the session, students split into small groups to create awareness posters based on what they had learned. Each group chose a topic like stigma, early detection, or prevention and developed a short skit and a slogan to go along with their poster.
​
We wrapped up with a celebration and a reminder that real change begins with small actions. Every student walked away with knowledge they could bring back to their families and neighborhoods.
Thank you to the students and team at Isomo Academy and Agahozo-Shalom for making this session possible. We left feeling inspired and hopeful for the ripple effect these students will create in the weeks and months ahead.
