Throughout October, Campus and Community (C&C) hosted a month of impactful initiatives to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection.
These efforts reflect KAUST’s commitment to community well-being and align with the Vision 2030 goal of fostering healthier, more active communities.
We saw incredible engagement across all activities. Here’s a snapshot of what we accomplished together:
- Screenings at KAUST Health
Over 125 women from the community received a breast ultrasound or mammogram this month, strengthening their commitment to early detection. KAUST Health continues to offer screenings throughout the year for women over 40 and those at higher risk. - Lighting The Beacon and Campus Pink
The Beacon and Campus Buildings were lit pink throughout the month, creating a powerful symbol of unity and hope in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. - Awareness Sessions
Awareness sessions across KAUST, Thuwal, and online reached hundreds of attendees, including community members, partners, and students. - An outreach session at the Nesma Embroidery Center in Thuwal, attended by more than 150 people, including partners, KAUST community members, students, and local organizations such as the Thuwal Health Center and public girls’ school.
- A fully booked lunchtime seminar on campus, engaging staff and community members in breast health education.
- A Lyra Wellbeing webinar, part of KAUST’s Learning & Development program, highlighting both the physical and emotional aspects of breast cancer awareness.
- 1,000+ community members attended Awareness in the Square event which hosted live performances, a vibrant community artisan market and an exclusive workshop with partners from LUSH promoting self-care and wellness.
- Women’s Support Group
For the first time, we introduced a Women’s Support Group for those in the KAUST community affected by breast cancer, either personally or through loved ones. These sessions provided a confidential, supportive environment for sharing experiences, exchanging advice, and building meaningful connections. The feedback from participants was deeply moving and underscored the importance of such spaces in fostering healing and empowerment.
Run for a Cure 2025
The month-long campaign concluded with the highly anticipated Run for a Cure on Friday, October 31. Over 652 runners and walkers participated to raise awareness, celebrate survivors, and come together as a community.
Set against the stunning Red Sea backdrop, the event featured 10K, 5K, and 3K routes, with participants from the KAUST community, Jeddah Running Club, Jeddah Trail Runners, and Masafat SA.
The race village buzzed with activities, including fitness games hosted by Decathlon, wellness booths, and community engagement stations.
Race Results:
Congratulations to the following top finishers:
- 5K Women: Oasis Hopwood: 20:48
- 5K Men: Geoff Bowery: 19:10
- 10K Women: Kathryn Christian: 43:42
- 10K Men: Nawaf Bander: 36: 59
Check out the full race results here.
Race feedback
If you participated in the race, please take a few minutes to share your feedback so we can continue to improve future running events at KAUST:
Run for Cure 2025 Event Feedback Form.
The event’s success was made possible thanks to the dedication of 40+ volunteers who assisted with race packs, route guidance, and logistics, ensuring a safe and memorable experience for everyone. Thank you to all who contributed!
Event partners and Sponsors
A heartfelt thank you to our Run for a Cure sponsor, SABIC, for their unwavering support and advocacy for breast cancer awareness.
We also extend our gratitude to our partners, Decathlon, Coastline, KAUST Health, IMC, and Khuta Clinic for their contributions, resources, and presence throughout the campaign.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month Photos and Feedback
Relive the best moments from Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities and Run for a Cure through our event photo albums.
We’d also love to hear your feedback on all the initiatives delivered as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts and help us continue to grow and improve future health and awareness initiatives.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month Feedback
Together, we’ve turned October into a month of compassion, connection, and community impact. Thank you for standing with us in support of awareness, prevention, and hope.
CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY