On Saturday, 10 October 2026, Men in Heels South Africa returns to Cedar Square Shopping Centre, Fourways, for the fifth annual Men in Heels Walkathon. Founded and organised by Lerato Molete, the awareness initiative invites men to step into high heels in support of breast cancer awareness in men, prostate cancer awareness, and the life-saving importance of early detection.
What started as an idea inspired by a cancer awareness initiative in the United States has evolved into a uniquely South African movement that uses an unexpected symbol to spark meaningful conversations about men’s health. While the sight of men walking in high heels captures attention, the message is clear: early detection saves lives.
Although breast cancer in men is rare, approximately one in 726 men will develop the disease during their lifetime. Research also points to important links between breast and prostate cancer, particularly among individuals with a family history of cancer or inherited genetic mutations, underscoring the importance of early detection and regular screening.“Several years ago, I came across a Men in Heels awareness walk in the United States. I saw the power of using something unexpected to start important conversations, and I believed the concept could have real impact in South Africa. Five years ago, I adapted it into a locally relevant awareness campaign focused on breast cancer in men, prostate cancer and the importance of early detection. Since then, it has grown into a movement that brings communities together to educate, inspire and encourage men to take charge of their health,” says Lerato Molete, Founder and Organiser of Men in Heels South Africa.
A founding partner of the initiative, Cedar Square Shopping Centre has hosted the Men in Heels Walkathon since its inception, providing a home for the event and supporting its growth into one of South Africa’s most distinctive health awareness campaigns. “For five years, Cedar Square has proudly been home to the Men in Heels Walkathon, an initiative that continues to demonstrate the power of community coming together for a meaningful cause. We are honoured to provide a platform for conversations around breast and prostate cancer awareness and applaud everyone who has contributed to growing this impactful event into a recognised annual movement. We look forward to welcoming participants back for another inspiring edition.”– Cedar Square Centre Management
Since its inception, CANSA has been a valued health partner of the Men in Heels Walkathon, playing a vital role in ensuring that awareness is translated into meaningful action.
At every edition, CANSA has hosted an educational exhibition stand, providing attendees with trusted information on breast and prostate cancer, while healthcare professionals have delivered informative talks on prevention, early detection and treatment. In 2025, the partnership was further strengthened with the introduction of an on-site registered nurse, who conducted free cancer screening assessments, giving participants immediate access to potentially life-saving health checks. This practical approach reflects the event’s commitment to moving beyond awareness and empowering South Africans to take charge of their health.
Among the initiative’s strongest ambassadors is David Lucas, a two-time prostate cancer survivor whose personal journey has made the campaign especially meaningful.“Having survived prostate cancer twice, this initiative resonates with me on a very personal level. It allows me to share my story and encourage other men to prioritise their health without fear or embarrassment. Awareness saves lives, and I am proud to lend my voice to this movement,” says David Lucas.
Participant safety has remained a cornerstone of the Men in Heels Walkathon since its inception. Long-standing emergency medical partner ER24 has been on-site at every edition of the event, with qualified paramedics on standby throughout the walk to provide immediate medical assistance should any participant require it—including the occasional wobble that can come with navigating 500 metres in high heels. Thankfully, thanks to careful planning, participant briefing and responsible event management, the Men in Heels Walkathon has maintained an excellent safety record, with no serious injuries recorded since the event was established.
The walkathon will bring together survivors, families, healthcare advocates, community members and corporate partners for a morning dedicated to education, inspiration and solidarity. Hosted at Cedar Square Shopping Centre in partnership with CANSA, the event encourages open conversations, regular health screenings and greater awareness of cancers affecting men.
Five years on, Men in Heels continues to prove that courage is not measured by what you wear—it’s measured by your willingness to stand up for others. Every step taken in a pair of heels is a step towards awareness, education, early detection and, ultimately, saving lives.
Whether you’re walking in heels, cheering from the sidelines, or supporting the cause as a partner or sponsor, every registration helps amplify the message that early detection saves lives.
Tickets are now available via Quicket. Individuals, families, community groups and corporate teams are encouraged to register early and be part of this milestone fifth edition as Men in Heels continues to champion cancer awareness, education and early detection.
Register here: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/385550-men-in-heels-walkathon/
Event Details
Event Men in Heels Walkathon
Date Saturday, 10 October 2026
Venue Cedar Square Shopping Centre, Fourways
Partner CANSA
Campaign Hashtag #HeelsUpPurposeHigher
For Media Enquiries, Partnerships and Sponsorship Opportunities
Lerato Molete
Founder & Organiser | Men in Heels South Africa
Managing Director | Black Cherrie Management Holdings
Email: [email protected]
Mobile: 078 411 6224
For media interviews, partnership opportunities, sponsorship enquiries or to register a team for the 2026 Men in Heels Walkathon, please contact Lerato Molete using the details above.
About Men in Heels South Africa
Founded by Lerato Molete, Men in Heels South Africa is an annual awareness initiative that adapts an internationally inspired concept for the South African context. Through education, community engagement and advocacy, the campaign challenges perceptions, sparks conversations and raises awareness about breast cancer in men, prostate cancer and the importance of early detection.
