The Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) themed their third She Shines festival as ‘Pinktober’ to raise awareness of breast cancer and pay tribute to those impacted by it.
Held at the CIFA complex in Matavera, 80 kids participated in basic football activities and games, led by CIFA Women’s Development Officer Tupou Patia-Brogan and the CIFA technical department.
A booth was set up for the Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation, with board member Mata Pera – a breast cancer survivor who recently returned home after years of treatment in New Zealand – present to talk to visitors.
CIFA established the She Shines festival initiative in May this year with the aim of bringing women together and to build positive relationships through football.
Patia-Brogan said it is great to see it become a regular initiative.
“The numbers increased from the last event which shows we are doing something right,” Patia-Brogan said.
“CIFA are always finding different ways to promote and grow football here in the Cook Islands, so to do it in a way where we could also raise awareness around breast cancer gave it even more purpose.
“The best part for me was seeing all the families, smiles, laughter and the enjoyment from the kids.”
Ends