As a Bank with medical research among its philanthropy priorities, UBP placed health at the heart of its collective priorities this October and brought colleagues together across the Group to raise funds for the fight against breast cancer.

Pink October is an annual worldwide campaign that started over thirty years ago in the US. It includes awareness events, fundraising campaigns, educational programs, and initiatives supporting breast-cancer research and patient care. With nearly 2.5 million women (99% of all breast cancer cases) diagnosed every year and some 8.2 million living with breast cancer around the world, it is more relevant than ever.

UBP joined in the campaign this year, its main fundraising initiative being a Bank-wide photo challenge. For every person appearing in a photograph wearing or holding a pink accessory, UBP pledged a donation. More than 600 colleagues took part, smashing the collective target. The funds were allocated to four charities, one in Geneva, one in the UK, and two in Asia.

"Pink October reminds us that awareness, prevention and early detection can make a difference. I’m proud of UBP’s broad mobilisation, from wellbeing sessions to community walks, and grateful for the enthusiasm of everyone who took part in supporting this cause."

Nikolett Kovacs, Corporate Sustainability Manager.

The campaign also included a programme of local initiatives:

  • In Geneva, breast cancer activist and breast cancer survivor Mélanie Tanner, founder of the Carac Rose Foundation, shared her experience alongside an oncology expert
  • In Hong Kong, colleagues attended a Breast Cancer Awareness Talk organised with the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation
  • In Paris, Gustave Roussy hospital and research centre held a fair at the office, while colleagues tracked distances covered in a running and cycling challenge
  • In Singapore, the Breast Cancer Foundation delivered a Breast Cancer Awareness Talk and Outreach Booth
  • In London, colleagues joined a Women’s Health Through a Lifetime webinar and a women’s health workshop
  • In Gibraltar, staff marked Think Pink Day with pink-themed activities and a 40-minute lunchtime Walk for the Girls

Chances of recovery from cancer depend on early diagnosis, screening, effective treatment, and complete cancer-care services. The World Health Organization’s Global Breast Cancer Initiative aims to reduce breast-cancer mortality by 2.5% per year, with a goal of averting 2.5 million deaths by 2040, by improving those factors.

“There are still too many women over 50 invited for a free scan who don’t follow up. Only a scan can detect a tumour very early and early detection can really save lives. So please have your scans and spread the word!”

Mélanie Tanner, breast cancer survivor and advocate, founder of the Carac Rose charity

Everyone has seen the harm that breast cancer can do, whether first-hand or through someone they know, regardless of where they live and what language they speak. As a result, this mobilisation around a cause has been the largest at UBP so far and has created a strong sense of community.

Pink October is a reminder to be aware and to take prevention seriously. It is also a powerful driver that boosts funding to help the people who need it and advance research.

It has been heart-warming to see colleagues come together enthusiastically behind this common cause!