Auckland residents recently gathered for the annual Pink Ribbon Breakfast, a popular community fundraising event aimed at supporting breast cancer research and patient care. Hosted by Tenaz and Hormuz Irani at their home, the event drew more than 125 attendees, including families, young adults, and several visitors who traveled considerable distances to participate.

The Pink Ribbon Breakfast campaign is organized nationwide by the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand during May, encouraging individuals, workplaces, and communities to hold breakfasts or gatherings to raise funds for breast cancer education, research, and support services. This event, now in its fifth year, has become a notable highlight within Auckland’s Parsi community, combining social connection with charitable giving.

Guests enjoyed a diverse menu featuring Parsi dishes such as akuri, alongside lamb and chicken enchiladas, chicken and mushroom pasta, sabudana khichdi, and a variety of homemade treats accompanied by masala chai. The food was largely prepared by Tenaz, a beautician and massage therapist who dedicates significant time to organizing the fundraiser. Her daughter, Friyan Irani, a professional baker, contributed by providing an assortment of desserts including French macaroons, cupcakes, and Persian cakes.

Fundraising efforts extend beyond the breakfast itself. In the weeks before the event, Tenaz sells homemade malido, a traditional Parsi sweet, donating all proceeds to the Breast Cancer Foundation. Popular items like prawn achaar and chutneys, made by friends, are also sold during the gathering. Donations are accepted on a voluntary basis, ensuring the event remains inclusive and welcoming regardless of attendees’ financial means.

Over recent years, the Irani family’s contributions have consistently ranked among the largest individual donations nationally. This year, the event raised over NZ$10,500, surpassing the previous year’s NZ$8,000. Organizers credit the strong turnout and generous support to a growing sense of community engagement, with Hormuz noting the increasing participation of younger generations and the commitment of friends who often travel from afar to attend.

The motivation behind the event is deeply personal for the organizers. Hormuz lost his brother to cancer at a young age, which fuels his dedication to supporting affected families. For Tenaz, the breakfast represents a way to give back and instill values of generosity in her children. Both emphasize the importance of community spirit alongside fundraising, with the event serving as a place for connection, celebration, and shared purpose.

The Pink Ribbon Breakfast at the Irani home continues to be a vibrant fixture in Auckland’s calendar, fostering awareness and support for breast cancer while bringing together a diverse group united by a common cause.