From Belgium to Brazil: Sibelco unites for Breast Cancer Awareness

During International Breast Cancer Awareness Month, SCR-Sibelco NV did its utmost to support the fight against breast cancer. The Belgian sand mining company organized numerous activities, with all proceeds Pink Ribbon to Pink Ribbon . Knitted hearts and pink candy bags were sold, and a collection box was placed at the reception desk in the three Belgian offices in Maasmechelen, Dessel, and Antwerp.

At the latter location, they went the extra mile and also sold homemade soup and pancakes. "We encouraged everyone to come dressed in pink. This generated a lot of positive responses, and even the management joined in. It was fantastic to see," says Anouk Todts, Corporate Paralegal at Sibelco and the driving force behind this initiative.

In total, Sibelco raised no less than €1,800 in Belgium. And in the Netherlands, €1,500 was donated to colleagues at Pink Ribbon.

Global engagement

This commitment to breast cancer organizations was extended not only to our northern neighbors, but also globally. Sibelco branches around the world dedicated October to Breast Cancer Awareness Month: from Sweden to Spain and from Brazil to India. "In some countries, the focus was more on awareness and providing information, while in Belgium we mainly focused on fundraising for Pink Ribbonsays Sofie Eyckerman, Director of Communications.  

To align the various activities, the organizing team at Sibelco put together a communication package. This included a specific logo, a Teams background, and an internal poster with the warning signs, all designed to draw attention to the theme of breast cancer. "That way, everyone had the same material, but they were free to choose what they wanted to do with it and how it suited them," adds Anouk.  

We Care Month

The Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities fit perfectly within Sibelco's We Care plan. With this plan, the company wants to shift its focus to the caring aspect within its corporate culture. "Safety is still our top priority, but now we are also putting other pillars in the spotlight. Think of pride, disability, and breast cancer awareness,"explains Sofie.

"Unfortunately, breast cancer is an issue that is close to many people's hearts. We noticed that people were very willing to support and participate in our campaigns," adds Anouk. "In Antwerp, a colleague who has recovered from breast cancer has written a guide with tips on what you should and shouldn't do for someone who has been affected. Unfortunately, this is based on personal experience, but that's what makes it so effective."

The organizing team at Sibelco looks back on the campaign with satisfaction and looks forward to continuing We Care throughout the year.

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