PHILIPSBURG:--- The streets of Philipsburg were transformed into a vibrant sea of pink on Friday, October 2, as more than 200 community members participated in the Annual Pink Parade organized by the Positive Foundation and Elektralyets Foundation as part of the 2026 Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign. The event formed one of the key highlights of the foundations' month-long initiative focused on education, awareness, early detection, survivorship, and support.
The parade brought together cancer survivors, caregivers, advocates, healthcare supporters, community organizations, educational institutions, corporate partners, parliamentarians, and residents who marched in solidarity with everyone affected by breast cancer. Participants proudly wore pink, carried banners, and delivered a powerful message of hope, support, and the importance of early detection as they followed the parade route through Philipsburg.
This year's parade demonstrated the continued growth of community engagement in the fight against breast cancer, with participation from numerous organizations, including:
- American University of the Caribbean
- Still Beautiful Foundation and the Breast Cancer Support Group
- Sister Basilia Center
- Funtopia Foundation
- Urmain “Youmay” Dormoy and New Generation Band
- NAGICO Insurances
- Fitness Attitude "Move for Her"
- Breast Friends Forever
- SCDF Pageantry Committee
- Orco Cares/Orco Bank
- The Golden Rock Cancer Awareness Foundation from St. Eustatius
- Holland House – for a warm welcome and refreshing welcome drink.
Together, these organizations created an inspiring visual display of community unity and support.
"Every person who walked in the parade helped amplify an important message," saidShelly Alphonso and Mercedes Van der Waals–Wyatt, Presidents of the Positive and Elektralyets Foundations. "Breast cancer affects individuals, families, workplaces, and entire communities. Seeing so many organizations and residents come together reminds us that no one must face this journey alone. Awareness is the first step, but awareness must lead to action. It is so impactful to see an increasing number of survivors proudly participate in the parade in honor of those who have survived, those who are still going through the fight, or those who have lost the fight, but more importantly, to say that it is important to love the Tatas and to check on them.
The Positive Foundation and Elektralyets Foundation extend heartfelt thanks to every individual, organization, sponsor, volunteer, and supporter who participated in the parade and helped make the event a success. Special appreciation is extended to the participating organizations, Holland House, the Red Cross, and KPSM, whose enthusiastic support helped create a memorable and impactful community event
The Pink Parade serves as a visible reminder of the campaign's core message: early detection saves lives. Throughout October, women 18 years and older are encouraged to take advantage of the various screening opportunities available, including free Clinical Breast Examinations at participating clinics and healthcare providers, as well as the foundation's partnership with St. Maarten Medical Center to provide 100 free mammograms for uninsured women who qualify through screening referrals on a first-come, first-served basis.
The 2026 Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign continues throughout October with numerous educational, wellness, fundraising, and support activities designed to promote breast health and encourage women to prioritize regular screenings.
The Positive Foundation and Elektralyets Foundation encourage everyone to continue supporting the campaign by attending upcoming events, sharing educational resources, and reminding the women in their lives that early detection remains one of the most effective tools in the fight against breast cancer.