Our history

Breast Cancer Cure was founded in 1997 in response to the high number of patients facing invasive treatments such as mastectomies and breast reconstruction. The organisation’s founding principle was rooted in the belief that investing in breast cancer research within New Zealand could make a significant difference and positively impact the outcomes of this devastating disease. 

The mission of Breast Cancer Cure became clear: to optimise outcomes by directing funding toward transformative research aimed at increasing precision in prevention, early accurate diagnosis and treatment with equity of outcome and quality of life for all.

Our story

We are proud to collaborate with New Zealand’s finest, from visionary scientists and leading education institutions to renowned fashion designers and Michelin Star chefs, and innovative forward-thinking Kiwi companies. 

We work closely with the Cancer Research Trust New Zealand in supporting the research sector and improving inequities and outcomes for those diagnosed with breast cancer in New Zealand. 

Our iconic Fashion for a Cure events captivate audiences across Aotearoa while showcasing the latest collections from leading New Zealand designers.

The unique experiences of Dine for a Cure, Kathryn Wilson Stilettos in the Vines and Conversation for a Cure celebrate the best of New Zealand fashion and food. 

Our Tees for a Cure clothing have been worn and loved by many since early 2000’s. The artwork for these gorgeous tees, hoodies, sweaters and long sleeve tees are designed by leading New Zealand fashion designers. 

At the heart of what we do are our researchers. Research remains pivotal in advancing our understanding of breast cancer. We are fortunate to have some of the most brilliant research minds in New Zealand dedicated to exploring ways to find a cure. We remain committed to supporting them. 

Our impact

With the generous support of New Zealanders and New Zealand businesses, Breast Cancer Cure has funded numerous significant research projects, totaling more than $11 million in research grants over the past 27 years. 

Thanks to these efforts, the death rate has been slowed by 1% per year, leading to 91% of women diagnosed with early breast cancer surviving more than five years and 86% surviving 10 years. However, for the remaining 14%, there is still no cure. Our focus remains on these women and the 20-30% who go on to develop advanced breast cancer.

Our funded research projects are actively contributing to improved outcomes for individuals facing breast cancer, redefining the concept of a cure. This encompasses advancements in more humane treatments, early detection methods, more accurate diagnosis and prognosis, precise therapies, and an overall improvement in the quality of life and survival, with a dedicated focus on enhancing equity.

With no direct government funding, it’s essential we continue our work. Research is pivotal in developing our understanding and in preventing, managing, and ultimately curing cancer.

The better we understand breast cancer, the better we can fight it.

Our Board

Fay Sowerby - Chair

Fay Sowerby, board member since 2009 and more recently Chair of Breast Cancer Cure, leads efforts to fund innovative research aimed at eliminating the impact of breast cancer on all New Zealanders. With over 30 years of governance and commercial experience, her determination for increased research funding, along with her personal experience of breast cancer, strengthens her commitment to advancing precision in prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment strategies through new technologies. Fay serves on another charity, 2 National and 1 International Committee. Fay is a member of the Institute of Directors, an Affiliate of Breast Cancer Trials, a member of the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) and a member of the New Zealand Society of Oncology (NZSO).

John Kensington

John is Financial Services Audit Partner at KPMG in Auckland. He is the editor of KPMG's Financial Institutions Performance Survey. John is a licensed auditor, and his audit experience covers a wide range of commercial sector clients including Banking, Insurance, Funds Management, and the Automotive Industry.  He has particular expertise in financial services auditing and related Reserve Bank and Trustee reporting requirements. John is also a member of the Institute of Directors.

John is a trustee of the Breast Cancer Cure board and has been a member since 2020.

Martin Cooper

A valued board member of Breast Cancer Cure, Martin is also the charity auctioneer of choice for Fashion for a Cure events run across New Zealand. Martin is Managing Director of Harcourts Cooper & Co Real Estate Ltd.

Phillipa Green

Phillipa has been associated with Breast Cancer Cure since 2008, serving as the CEO for 13 years, and has been on the Board since 2021. She is currently General Manager of Canopy Cancer Care (2021-present).

Professor Andrew Shelling

Andrew holds the position of Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and serves as the Director of the Centre for Cancer Research at the University of Auckland. He has been a member of the Breast Cancer Cure board since 2020.

Tony Moffat

Tony has been on the Breast Cancer Cure Board since 2012. He is currently the CEO of Canopy Healthcare Group Ltd (2018-present), CEO of TRG Imaging Ltd (2014-present) and Director of Auckland Breast Centre (2014-present).

Murray Bevan

Murray started his journey with the Breast Cancer Cure when it was formerly the Breast Cancer Research Trust (BCRT), back when the charity launched its infamous Glassons BCRT campaign in the early 2000s.  As a marketing and PR specialist, Murray has spent the last two decades carving out a niche in New Zealand and offers the board a new perspective on brand partnerships, marketing, PR, revenue generation and more.  Now into his 23rd year as Director of Showroom 22, Murray joined the Breast Cancer Cure board in 2023 to help continue the legacy of the charity to fund research into finding a cure for Breast Cancer in New Zealand.

Sheree Ryan

Bringing over two decades of expertise in accounting, audit, and corporate governance, Sheree also has a significant understanding of Te Ao Māori and strong connections with Māori business, Marae and Iwi. Sheree joined the Breast Cancer Cure board in 2023 and also holds governance and advisory roles with Te Nehenehenui and the Mangarapa Trust. Currently Managing Director of Toku Mauri, Sheree, herself a breast cancer survivor, is steadfast in her commitment to supporting those who will deliver a cure.

Our staff

Sonja de Mari
CEO

Lee-Ann Crawford
Events Co-ordinator

Amber Henderson
Marketing Manager

Jessica Taplin
Partnership Executive

Rina Crawford
Business Administrator