Who said a runway is only about beautiful clothes, fabulous walks and striking poses? Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can wear is courage!

This week on Buzz with Danu, we’re talking about something that deserves more than just a passing conversation. Breast cancer affects lives, families and futures, yet in Sri Lanka, it’s still a subject many hesitate to discuss openly.

Rotary Pink Pledge, together with Cup of Courage Season 3, is changing that conversation with Runway of Courage, happening on 24 October at Cinnamon Grand Colombo.

With survivors, caregivers, advocates and familiar faces taking to the runway, this promises to be a celebration of life, strength and hope. And yes, yours truly will be walking too!

Here’s a little more about the event and why this is one runway we should all be paying attention to.

1. First things first! We’ve seen fashion shows celebrating beauty, but what exactly is Runway of Courage celebrating?
We’re celebrating something far more powerful than fashion, the human spirit. Runway of Courage brings breast cancer survivors, caregivers and supporters together to celebrate life beyond a cancer diagnosis. Every person walking that runway carries a story of resilience, determination and hope.

2. Your theme is “Breaking the Taboo.” Are we really still afraid to talk about breast cancer in 2026?
Unfortunately, yes. Despite growing awareness, fear, embarrassment and misconceptions still prevent many women from speaking openly about breast cancer. We want to change that. Breast cancer should never be a subject of shame. The more openly we discuss it, the more we can encourage women to seek timely medical advice and support.

3. We Sri Lankans can discuss everybody else’s problems over tea, but when it comes to our own health, we suddenly become very quiet. Why?
It’s often a combination of cultural attitudes, fear and putting everyone else’s needs before our own. Many women prioritise their families while neglecting their health. We want to remind them that taking care of themselves is not selfish. It’s essential.

4. So, who’s walking the runway? And should we expect a little glamour alongside all this courage?
Absolutely! Fashion and glamour are part of the celebration. Breast cancer survivors will walk alongside caregivers, supporters and personalities including Prathibha Liyanaarachchi, Sandra Mack and Danu Innasithamby (that’s me). But the real stars are the survivors. Their confidence, stories and courage will make this runway truly unforgettable.

5. Cancer can change a person’s relationship with their body. How important is it to help survivors feel beautiful and confident again?

Incredibly important. Cancer treatment can bring physical and emotional changes that affect confidence and self-image. This runway is about reminding survivors that beauty is not defined by appearance, scars or society’s expectations. Confidence comes in many forms, and every survivor deserves to feel celebrated.

6. We always call cancer survivors brave and strong. But surely they’re allowed to have bad days too?

Of course! Strength doesn’t mean being positive every single day. Survivors experience fear, exhaustion, uncertainty and emotional challenges. Real support means allowing people to be vulnerable without expecting them to constantly put on a brave face.

7. Let’s talk about early detection. Why do so many women still delay getting themselves checked?
Fear is a major factor, but access, awareness and misconceptions also play a role. Some women worry about what they might discover, while others simply don’t prioritise screening. Our message is to speak with healthcare professionals, understand personal risk and follow appropriate screening recommendations. Timely intervention can make a significant difference.

8. The people standing beside cancer patients often have their own battles. Are caregivers getting enough attention?
Caregivers are sometimes the forgotten heroes. They provide emotional, physical and practical support, often while managing their own fears. Runway of Courage recognises them because no cancer journey happens in isolation. Families, friends and communities all play an important role.

9. Now, this isn’t just a fashion show. There’s some serious medical knowledge coming our way, too, isn’t there?
Yes! We have an expert panel featuring specialists from Sri Lanka and Singapore, including oncologists, a breast surgeon and cancer advocates. They’ll discuss prevention, screening, advances in treatment and survivorship. We want people to leave not only inspired but also better informed.

10. You’re hoping to raise one million rupees. Where will that money go?
The fundraising goal is LKR 1 million, with proceeds supporting breast cancer awareness, outreach and patient assistance initiatives through Rotary Pink Pledge, the Sri Lanka Cancer Society and Rotary Club of Colombo West. We want the impact of this event to reach communities long after the runway lights go out.

I’ve always believed that fashion is about expressing who you are. But this time, the runway is about something much bigger.

It’s about women who have fought battles we may never fully understand. It’s about families who stood beside them, and it’s about reminding every woman that her health matters.

I’m looking forward to being part of Runway of Courage, because sometimes making a difference begins with simply showing up.

And if a runway can encourage even one woman to have that important conversation about her health, then that’s a walk worth taking!

Runway of Courage – Rotary Pink Pledge & Cup of Courage Season 3

Date: Saturday, 24 October 2026
Time: 9.30 AM onwards
Venue: Cinnamon Grand Colombo
Tickets: LKR 7,000 per person
Inquiries: Mudara – 071 973 7537

Support the Cause. Break the Taboo. Be Part of the Courage.