Ghanaian Health Foundation Takes Women's Cancer Advocacy Global with New York Events

Dorothy's Hope Foundation (DHF), a Ghanaian non-profit organisation focused on breast cancer advocacy and women's health, is expanding its reach internationally with two flagship events planned for New York in September and October 2026. The move reflects the foundation's growing strategy to engage the African diaspora and mobilise resources for improving cancer care across Ghana.

The first event, the "Health is Wealth Forum", will take place on 24 September 2026 as a side event of the 81st United Nations General Assembly. Scheduled from 11am to 2pm EST, the forum will bring together women leaders, healthcare professionals, policymakers, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and diaspora leaders from Africa, the United States, and beyond. Under the theme "Empowering Women through Leadership and Global Impact", the forum aims to foster strategic partnerships and collective action on women's health and economic empowerment.

Following this, DHF will host the "Brushes of Strength Fundraising Gala" on 23 October 2026 at 6pm EST. Described as a black-tie event, the gala will honour breast cancer survivors and bring together prominent dignitaries, philanthropists, and organisations to champion improved cancer outcomes and meaningful access to support.

Building evidence-based cancer care in Ghana

For over a decade, DHF has conducted research across Greater Accra, Ashanti, Western, and Volta regions to understand the challenges within Ghana's cancer care landscape. This evidence-based approach has informed the foundation's advocacy for strengthened healthcare infrastructure, policy reforms, improved facilities, and better data management systems across the country.

The foundation's work extends beyond awareness campaigns to pushing for systemic changes that improve patient outcomes. By gathering and analysing regional data, DHF has identified critical gaps in the healthcare system and advocated for stronger partnerships among stakeholders to create a more responsive and equitable cancer care system.

Why it matters for Ghana

These international events represent a strategic opportunity for Ghana's health sector. The diaspora engagement model employed by DHF can mobilise financial resources, expertise, and partnerships that are often scarce in Ghana's health system. By hosting events at the UN General Assembly, DHF is positioning Ghana's cancer care challenges on a global platform, potentially attracting international funding, technical support, and policy attention.

The foundation's research-driven approach and regional focus across four key regions provide a replicable model for other health advocacy organisations in Ghana. Additionally, the events highlight how Ghanaian diaspora members can contribute meaningfully to solving healthcare challenges back home, a pattern increasingly relevant as many Ghanaians seek ways to support national development.

For Ghanaian healthcare policymakers and stakeholders, the visibility these events generate may strengthen the case for increased domestic investment in cancer care infrastructure and prevention programmes. The partnerships forged internationally could also lead to knowledge transfer and capacity-building opportunities for Ghanaian healthcare professionals.

DHF has invited media organisations in Ghana, New York, and across the diaspora to amplify these conversations and extend their reach to communities on both continents, underscoring the foundation's commitment to translating advocacy into tangible action that improves women's health outcomes.