The Beyond October Cancer Awareness Campaign 2025 marked its 11th edition on October 30, celebrating resilience, community spirit and the unwavering courage of cancer warriors. Led by media personality Manju Ramanan, the annual initiative has grown into a powerful platform for survivors to share their journeys and for the community to unite in support.
“This is a space where cancer warriors narrate their stories, and this year we truly witnessed the best of Dubai come together — fighters, guests and the media,” said Ramanan.
This year’s event took place at Daftar, DIFC, the restaurant owned by Isheeta Sharma. The gathering saw the support of several partners, including Enchanter Arabia, Innara headed by Guddi Bajaj, Playfield Entertainment led by Dixit Dev, JYK by Juhi Yasmeen Khan, and Teejay Packers owned by Thomas Joseph. Media organisations such as Khaleej Times, Zee TV Middle East, Talk 100.3 FM and India’s The Glitz Magazine amplified the campaign’s message of breast cancer awareness. Additional support came from Vidisha of The Indian Folk Art Corridor and Simi Markose of Jenny Flowers.
Innara founder Guddi Bajaj, a long-time pillar of the campaign, emphasised the emotional significance of the initiative. “Supporting the Beyond October: ‘No One Walks Alone’ campaign is an honour. It reflects our shared responsibility to turn awareness into action and stand with women on this journey,” she said.
The guest of honour, Ahmad Al Falasi — often called the “Homemaker of the UAE” for his charitable work — spoke about his foundation’s efforts to support renal patients in Africa and its growing focus on breast cancer awareness. Bollywood actor and dancer Kalpana Iyer highlighted the importance of compassion in outreach, while celebrity life coaches Sara Arfeen Khan and Arfeen Khan, recently seen on Bigg Boss, delivered a heartfelt message on resilience. “Life can surprise you; kindness must always come first,” Sara noted.
Among the most touching moments was a musical tribute by Aarushi Laud and Navni Patni, students of Dubai Gems Academy and participants in the Sakshi Vercot Theatre Festival. The event honours Sakshi Vercot, a gifted student who lost her life to cancer. Her mother, Binu Sivan — herself a cancer warrior — shared how her daughter’s courage continues to guide her.
Guinness World Record holder Sucheta Santosh lifted spirits with multilingual performances, engaging directly with the survivors present.
Ramanan noted that cancer warriors confront challenges far beyond medical treatment — from financial strain and insurance hurdles to emotional exhaustion and livelihood concerns. “Each year, we hope to connect them with resources and networks that strengthen their quality of life,” she said.
Hosting the event left a deep impact on Daftar’s founder, Isheeta Sharma. “The resilience of cancer warriors shows us the true meaning of strength. We’re honoured to support a cause that celebrates hope and healing,” she said.
