Genevieve Pink Ball Fights Breast Cancer With Style

The well-attended third edition of the Genevieve Pink Ball held on the 18th of October at The Dorchester in Victoria Island. This year's challenge: raise funds for the treatment of 100 cancer patients.

Dimeji Alara, Editor of Genevieve MagazineMohini Ufeli, Sahara ReportersIn Lagos, every three or four years, there is just one night where men and women have the opportunity to dress up like royalty in pink. At the end of this night, money is raised to further efforts in the fight against breast cancer. This event is the Genevieve Pink Ball, “The Ball With A Cause,” and the third edition was held on  October 18th, at "The Dorchester" in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, former Big Brother contestant, now lawyer and media personalityMohini Ufeli, Sahara ReportersGenevieve Magazine organized the first Pink Ball in 2005, in an effort to raise funds and awareness about breast cancer detection, treatment and counseling. In previous years, the organization used the contributed funds to purchase a mammogram which they donated to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). A chat with Dimeji Alara, Editor of Genevieve Magazine, highlighted the impact of hosting an event that sets society buzzing. "This is something that people will talk about," he said, "and as long as people talk about it, people will talk about breast cancer."

Nonye Goodie-ObiMohini Ufeli, Sahara ReportersThis year’s edition was geared towards tackling the “100 patient challenge.” Participants who sign up for the challenge adopt a Breast Cancer patient and help provide funds for their treatment. The proceeds from the Ball tickets go towards treating patients; tickets ranged in price from N30,000 to N50,000.

The Ball attracts celebrities and big company sponsors. Amongst this year's guests was Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, former Big Brother Nigeria contestant, now a lawyer and media personality. He attended the 2009 edition of the pink ball and participated in the celebrity catwalk.

Chinyere Adogu, MBGN Tourism 2014Mohini Ufeli, Sahara ReportersHis return this year was inspired by his belief in the cause and an appreciation for Genevieve Magazine's efforts to spread awareness.

Nonye Goodie-Obi of event partner Keystone Bank, expressed similar sentiments, saying, "any event to raise funds should be supported by everyone."

Queen AnevaMohini Ufeli, Sahara ReportersWhile some guests came to support the cause, others' attendance was inspired by more personal reasons. The Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) 2014, Chinyere Adogu, had seen loved ones diagnosed with the disease, therefore her participation was born of witnessing the effects of the disease closeup. Queen Aneva had a brush with the disease but beat it due to early detection. "I was fortunate to catch it at Stage 1A," she said, "and I'm excited that men and women are coming together to help other women."

Tosin Ajibade (Olori Supergal)Mohini Ufeli, Sahara ReportersAttending her first pink ball, Tosin Ajibade, better known as Olori Supergirl, said, "We should keep reminding ourselves about these things. A new issue might come up and we forget, but this kills us."

The event hosted musical performances by Pink Ball Foundation Ambassador Seyi Shay, as well as Flavour, Ebony band and Godwin Strings. The evening also showcased fashion designs by Mai Atafo and Lanre Da Silva. The excitement was further heightened by the use of celebrity models on the catwalk, including Fade Ogunro, Osas Ighodaro, Lynxxx, Banky W and Chris Attoh amongst others.

SOURCE:SAHaRa Reporters