IRETI’s Triumph: Transforming Lives Through Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative

Empowering Women: IRETI’s Revolutionary Fight Against Breast Cancer

by BurrowBoss October 28, 2023, 5:07 am 2.3k Views

IRETI’s lifeline for breast cancer patients | The Guardian Nigeria News

Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative

IRETI's Triumph: Transforming Lives Through Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative

Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative takes center stage as IRETI's inspirational journey drives hope and early detection.

Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative Takes Center Stage in Nigeria: IRETI's Inspiring Journey and Beyond

Breast cancer has long been a silent adversary, lurking in the shadows, claiming countless lives globally. It's a battle that's personal to many, a foe that requires an army of warriors united in the cause for early detection, prevention, and support. In Nigeria, this battle found a remarkable champion in Jane Agbaohwo, and her journey of resilience and hope is lighting the path for countless others.

Jane's Journey of Hope

At the tender age of 22, Jane Agbaohwo had to confront a heart-wrenching tragedy. Her beloved mother, just 50 years old, lost her life to cancer in 2019. The devastating loss marked a turning point in Jane's life. Faced with the anguish of witnessing her mother's struggle, she realized the crucial importance of early detection in the fight against cancer.

“I felt so helpless when she was sick. I didn't know how to help her, because she was basically on drugs. When she passed, it became a realization, and I knew I had to help people because early detection is key to tackling the disease. So, once you detect early, you can start treatments, and you stand a chance to live,” Jane said.

This heart-wrenching experience sowed the seeds for something incredible – the birth of IRETI, a health-tech startup dedicated to helping women manage breast cancer. Jane's vision goes beyond the traditional fight against cancer; it's a holistic approach aimed at reaching women in both urban and rural communities. It's about fostering collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to amplify cancer awareness.

IRETI: Pioneering Change

IRETI is not merely a beacon of hope; it's a lifeline for those battling breast cancer. It encapsulates the power of early detection, understanding that it can be the difference between life and death. Their mission is simple – create awareness about breast cancer, and empower women to stand a fighting chance by catching the disease early.

Agbaohwo's dedication and hard work were recently recognized at the Wema Bank/ALAT Hackaholics Digital Summit and grand finale in Lagos, under the theme ‘Re-imagine: Disrupting the Ecosystem for Scale.' Jane Agbaohwo emerged as the winner, with IRETI securing a notable N15 million cash prize for the best-pitched business.

The significance of this accomplishment extends far beyond the cash reward. It demonstrates the unwavering commitment to the cause, a testament to the impact of IRETI's initiatives in the lives of Nigerians. But, this victory is not theirs alone; it's a victory for all women, for all those who dream of a future free from the shadow of breast cancer.

A Night of Triumph and Inspiration

In the digital age, events like the Hackaholics Digital Summit serve as more than just competitions. They're catalysts for innovation, fostering a space where visionaries can thrive and where support extends beyond capital. It's a night of triumph, an inspirational moment when innovators find their voices.

Solomon Ayodele, Head of Innovation and Emerging Technologies at Wema Bank, underscored the significance of the Pre-Pitch event. Among thousands of applications, the 10 finalists emerged after rigorous training to refine their pitches, setting the stage for the grand finale.

“The Hackaholics vision has been perfectly brought to life, and its impact on the lives and businesses of Nigerians nationwide cannot be over-emphasized,” Ayodele emphasized. This is more than a competition; it's about the transformation of technology and innovation on both individual and industrial levels.

The Power of Innovation: A Judge's Perspective

Femi Awoniyi, a Startup Fund Manager at Google and one of the judges at the summit, shed light on the criteria for success. It's about the strength of the team, the innovative solutions they bring to the table, the robustness of the business model, and the potential for scaling. It's innovation that touches lives and defends businesses.

Today's digital landscape needs more events like this, a space where innovation flourishes and change is born. Solutions emerging from such platforms have the potential to touch and transform lives on a large scale. The impact goes beyond individual businesses; it ripples through society, creating a virtuous cycle of innovation and empowerment.

Championing Innovation for a Brighter Future

Rosemond Phil-Odhihiwa, a startup attorney and corporate consultant serving as a judge, highlighted the theme of ‘Hackaholic' – innovation and the capacity to scale. In the pursuit of viable, scalable ideas, these platforms challenge entrepreneurs to think beyond the ordinary.

Wema Bank's MD/CEO, Moruf Oseni, stressed the synergy between traditional banking expertise and technology. He recognized the necessity of paying attention to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education for Nigeria's sustainable economic and social development.

While entertainment and sports have propelled Nigeria onto the global stage, they can't resolve the technology and infrastructure deficits that stand between the nation and its true potential. Innovation is the key to unlocking that potential, fostering sustainable success through collaboration and seizing opportunities.

Oseni assured the audience that this journey of empowering lives and fostering transformation through innovation was only just beginning. The Hackaholics Digital Summit 2024 promises to be even more significant and inspiring.

A Call to Action

In a keynote address, Olugbenga Agboola, the Founder/CEO of Flutterwave, called for unity in solving local and global challenges through technology. He praised Wema Bank for its consistent support of FinTechs and small businesses in Nigeria.

Agboola's words ring true for all of us. In the face of formidable challenges like breast cancer, it's unity that paves the way for innovative solutions. As Wema Bank's dedication and passion inspire the next generation of innovators, we're reminded that together, we can go far.

Unleashing Collective Potential

Tunde Mabawonku, the Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business at Wema Bank, highlighted the essence of the event. It transcends boundaries, uniting digital innovators, visionaries, and industry leaders. It's about harnessing the collective potential of startup founders, redefining the boundaries of what's possible in the digital age.

The theme of the event embodies the belief in a world where change is the only constant. The ability to reimagine and disrupt the status quo sets us apart in an ever-evolving landscape. It's a reminder that innovation knows no bounds and the possibilities are limitless.

A Confluence of Visionaries

The grand finale event united key players in the technology and digital space, creating an environment where insights, trends, and best practices could be shared. Industry giants, including Microsoft, Flutterwave, and Interswitch, rubbed shoulders with representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Endeavor Africa.

In this confluence of visionaries, discussions ranged from funding and technologies to industry practices, government policies, infrastructure, and strategic innovation for societal change. It left attendees with a renewed sense of responsibility, a focus on navigating the digital and technology industry toward self, professional, and national development.

Jane Agbaohwo's journey ignited the spark for IRETI, an initiative that stands as a testament to the power of determination and innovation in the fight against breast cancer. Her story is one of resilience and hope, and the impact of IRETI is far-reaching, a beacon of awareness and early detection.

But this is not just Jane's story; it's a call to action for all of us. As the digital age unfolds before our eyes, it's a reminder that innovation is our greatest weapon in the battle against breast cancer and in transforming our world for the better. Together, we can go far. Let's be a part of this collective journey towards a brighter, healthier future.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on how technology, innovation, and collaboration can drive change in the fight against breast cancer. Your voice matters, and together, we can make a difference.

As we delve into this inspiring journey of IRETI and the vital mission to enhance breast cancer awareness and early detection, it's crucial to remember that awareness goes hand in hand with action. While knowledge is the first step, taking a proactive stance is equally essential. We understand the significance of early detection and the profound impact it can have on lives.

In our endeavor to empower and support those affected by breast cancer, we introduce a selection of Breast Cancer Bracelets. These bracelets are more than just pieces of jewelry; they are symbols of solidarity and strength. By wearing these bracelets, you not only adorn yourself with a beautiful accessory but also contribute to the cause of raising awareness and supporting individuals in their battle against breast cancer.

Let these bracelets serve as a reminder of the importance of early detection, and may they inspire hope, strength, and unity. Join us in this mission to make a difference, one bracelet at a time, as we strive to create a world where breast cancer is not just a word but a battle we win together.