Olubukola Ayodele, Breast Cancer Lead at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, shared on LinkedIn:
“You asked and I listened!
On Saturday, 1st November 2025, something truly important is happening in Leicester.
We will be hosting a special public screening of Unseen Unheard: The Untold Breast Cancer Stories of Black Women in the UK at the African Caribbean Centre, Leicester (10am–2pm).
This powerful play, first presented by Theatre Peckham in 2023, was created by Black Women Rising UK, founded by the inspiring Leanne Pero. It is proudly sponsored by Gilead Sciences UK and Ireland.
I have had the privilege of watching this play three times already, and every single time it has moved me, challenged me, and reminded me why this work matters. I chaired the first Leicester screening, which was attended mainly by healthcare professionals. Now, we are opening the doors to the wider community of patients, families, advocates, community leaders, and the public.
I am especially delighted that Leanne Pero herself will be joining us in Leicester for the first time to share this important work.
Why does this matter?
Because breast cancer does not affect everyone equally. Black women are disproportionately affected by inequalities at every stage of the cancer journey from awareness and screening to diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Their voices are often absent from mainstream cancer narratives. Unseen Unheard shines a light on these silenced experiences with honesty, dignity, and urgency.
This is not just theatre, it is a call to action.
It is an opportunity for policymakers, MPs, councillors, mayors, healthcare professionals, charities, and community members to sit side by side, listen deeply, and reflect on how we can do better. Because tackling health inequalities cannot be left to a few passionate voices; it requires all of us, across every sector, to play our part.
If you believe in equity, justice, and the right for every woman to be seen, heard, and cared for with compassion, then I urge you to attend.
Bring a colleague. Bring a friend. Bring your family.
Most importantly, bring your curiosity and an open heart.
Unseen Unheard: The Untold Breast Cancer Stories of Black Women in the UK
Saturday 1st November 2025
10am – 2pm
African Caribbean Centre, Leicester
Registration.
Together, let’s ensure no woman’s story goes unseen or unheard.”
More insights from Olubukola Ayodele.