BRAC Bank TARA, Green Delta host ‘Rise Above Fear’ breast cancer awareness event

BRAC Bank TARA, in collaboration with Green Delta Insurance, hosted a discussion session entitled "Rise Above Fear" to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The inspiring event, attended by around 80 women customers and guests, celebrated courage, compassion, and collective commitment to advancing women's wellness. Green Delta Insurance acted as the knowledge partner, while the Gates Foundation supported the initiative as patron.

Sheikh Mohammad Ashfaque, Deputy Managing Director and Head of Branch Distribution Network at BRAC Bank, inaugurated the event at the bank's head office on 24 October 2025.

"At BRAC Bank, we believe that empowerment begins with awareness, and that courage often begins with a conversation. This awareness session brings together experts, survivors, advocates, and changemakers to shed light on an issue that touches so many lives — breast cancer. While cancer may bring fear, knowledge brings hope," said Ashfaque.

Mehruba Reza, Head of TARA, Agami and Premium Banking at BRAC Bank, and Sadaf Nasir, Unit Head of Brand and Communication at Green Delta Insurance, delivered welcome remarks highlighting both organisations' shared commitment to women's empowerment, health inclusion, and holistic well-being.

Sharmin Tarannum, Head of Medical Value Travel and Wellness at GD Assist, presented an overview of the TARA Health Insurance Package and other women-focused medical solutions offered by GD Assist, a sister concern of Green Delta Insurance.

Renowned oncoplastic breast surgeon and specialist Dr Afrin Sultana led an informative discussion on early detection, prevention, and dispelling myths around breast cancer, underscoring that awareness and timely care can save lives.

A panel discussion featuring Prof Dr Md Habibullah Talukder, Cancer Epidemiologist and Preventive Oncologist at Gonoshasthaya Community Based Cancer Hospital; Najmus Ahmed (Albab), Founder of BANCAT; and Shamarukh Fakhruddin, Director at Urmi Group, focused on the need for stronger public–private collaboration to expand access to cancer care.

Psychotherapist and Honorary Professor Mehtab Khanam delivered an inspiring talk on mental wellness, emphasising empathy and emotional resilience among patients and carers.

The event honoured three cancer activists—Prof Dr Md Habibullah Talukder, Mahzabin Ferdous, and Nuzhat Tarannum—for their contributions to awareness and advocacy.

The evening concluded with musical performances by the BRAC Bank Music Club, celebrating hope, strength, and solidarity.