Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October 2024
Beltone’s Group CEO, Dr. Dalia Khorshid:
Leading Beltone’s Green Revolution
Dr. Dalia Khorshid, Group CEO and Managing Director of Beltone Holding, was recently recognized by Forbes as one of the leading figures in sustainability, affirming her influential role in the financial sector and her commitment to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into Beltone’s core strategy. This accolade underscores her visionary approach to sustainability, positioning her as a role model not only in Egypt but globally, as she champions responsible investing and steers Beltone towards a green-focused future.
Dr. Khorshid has set Beltone on a transformative path, blending profitability with a commitment to environmental responsibility. Under her leadership, Beltone has taken significant strides in green finance, marking a historic achievement with Egypt’s first carbon credit trade in August 2024. This milestone transaction, conducted between the Egyptian Biodynamic Association and Isis for Food Manufacturing, has been praised as a key step in advancing Egypt’s sustainability landscape. The deal is more than a financial accomplishment; it signals Beltone’s pioneering role in leveraging financial tools to promote environmental progress and set a benchmark for future green transactions in the region.
Beyond this, Beltone has expanded its green investment portfolio with a strategic equity stake in VelyVelo, an e-bike fleet management company in France and Morocco, that aims to expand into Spain and Belgium. This investment not only underscores Beltone’s support for sustainable urban mobility but also aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions, especially in densely populated cities where transportation is a major source of pollution. Dr. Khorshid’s decision to back VelyVelo is a testament to her belief in scalable solutions that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Beltone’s sustainability journey under Dr. Khorshid’s guidance is evident internally as well. In 2023, the company undertook a comprehensive measurement of its carbon footprint, totaling 2,190 metric tons of CO₂ equivalent, and set a target to reduce its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 42% by 2030. This ambitious goal demonstrates Beltone’s proactive approach to environmental management within its own operations, further solidifying its status as a leader in sustainable finance. Additionally, Beltone has embraced circular economy principles, partnering with Bekia Waste Management to recycle paper and plastics. Profits from these recycling initiatives are directed towards charitable causes, reflecting Dr. Khorshid’s vision of a holistic approach to corporate responsibility that benefits both the environment and the community.
This recognition from Forbes solidifies Dr. Khorshid’s reputation as a global leader in sustainability, with Beltone’s green finance achievements demonstrating how financial institutions can be powerful catalysts for environmental change. By embedding sustainability into Beltone’s DNA, she has created a corporate culture that prioritizes both economic growth and a commitment to building a greener future. Through her strategic vision, Beltone continues to inspire the financial industry to align with global sustainability goals, ensuring the company’s lasting impact on the planet for generations to come.
Beltone
Honored with
Best Practices
for commitment
to inclusion
Award
We are thrilled to announce that Beltone has been recognized for its exceptional commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. The Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI), in collaboration with the International Labor Organization (ILO) through the SOLIFEM project, has honored Beltone with the prestigious “Best Practices for Commitment to Inclusion” award. This recognition was part of the “Recognizing Sustainable Champions for Formalization Practices in Egypt” competition, highlighting organizations that prioritize sustainability, inclusion, and the formalization of employment practices. For Beltone, this award represents a significant milestone on our path toward a more inclusive and diverse workplace, underscoring our dedication to providing equal opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds and abilities.
A core driver of this achievement has been Beltone’s groundbreaking “Train to Sustain” initiative, which has become a key pillar of our organizational culture. Through this program, Beltone has hired 20 individuals with various disabilities—such as Down Syndrome, physical disabilities, hearing impairments, and Autism—and provided them with comprehensive onboarding and ongoing training to ensure a smooth integration into their roles.
Beltone is proud to have most of its employees trained and certified in health and safety standards by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This certification underscores our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace. Additionally, having undergone Microsoft training to enhance their technical skills, alongside soft skills training to improve communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
These employees receive the same benefits as others, including medical coverage, life insurance, and social security, along with tailored support to meet their unique needs.
In addition to supporting employees with disabilities, Beltone offers training to all staff on effective collaboration and support for colleagues with diverse abilities. This training promotes a workplace culture rooted in empathy, understanding, and teamwork, ensuring that inclusivity is a fundamental value at Beltone. This award underscores Beltone’s ongoing commitment to an equitable future and highlights the positive impact of its inclusive practices.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s a trigger — 31 days in the fall of pink-ribbon reminders of a disease that forever changed them. For others, it’s a chance to show their support for the more than 2 million women around the world who are diagnosed with the disease each year.
Understanding the goals behind the global campaign and the emotions felt by the many different people living with the disease may help you decide if and how you want to commemorate the month.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international health campaign that’s held every October. The month aims to promote screening and prevention of the disease, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide. Known best for its pink theme color, the month features a number of campaigns and programs — conducted by groups ranging from breast cancer advocacy organizations to local community organizations to major retailers — aimed at:
- Supporting people diagnosed with breast cancer, including those with metastatic breast cancer
- Educating people about breast cancer risk factors.
- Encouraging women to go for regular breast cancer screening starting at age 40 or earlier, depending on personal breast cancer risk.
- Fundraising for breast cancer research.
- In the month of October, there are also specific dates designed to raise awareness of specific groups within the breast cancer community.
2.3 M
Affected Women Worldwide
Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day October 13
It’s nationally recognized in the U.S. as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. About 168,000 women in the U.S. are estimated to have metastatic breast cancer (cancer that spreads beyond the breast to other parts of the body). Researchers estimate that about 30% of early-stage breast cancers eventually metastasize. The day, which began in 2009, is meant to educate the public about the need for more money to go to the study of metastatic breast cancer and the development of new metastatic cancer treatments.Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week October 17–23
Although breast cancer is much more common in women, breast cancer affects men, too. In 2021, President Joe Biden designated October 17 to October 23 Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week. According to the American Cancer Society, 2,790 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024, and about 530 are expected to die from the disease. But lack of awareness and stigma can be barriers to detection and care in men, trans men, and non-binary people.
The history of Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The event began in 1985 as a week-long awareness campaign by the American Cancer Society, in partnership with Imperial Chemical Industries, a British company that made tamoxifen. The campaign eventually grew into a month-long event.
In 1992, the pink ribbon came into play after Alexandra Penney, SELF magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, partnered with Evelyn Lauder, Estée Lauder’s Senior Corporate Vice President and a breast cancer survivor, to distribute pink ribbons after the magazine’s second annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month issue.
Other variations of the pink ribbon have emerged in recent years to raise awareness that all people with breast cancer are not the same. These include ribbons for raising awareness about metastatic breast cancer, men with breast cancer, inflammatory breast cancer, and more.
Preventing
Cancer
Don’t Smoke
Smoking is the leading cause of cancer, contributing to 30% of all cancers and 90% of lung cancers. Quitting smoking has immediate and long-term health benefits, reducing the risk of many cancers and other diseases
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is linked to an increased risk of many cancers (e.g., breast, colon, pancreas). Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can significantly lower cancer risk.
Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity reduces the risk of various cancers, particularly breast and colon cancer, by improving immune function and regulating hormones
Eat a Healthy Diet
A plant-based diet, low in processed meats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, helps reduce cancer risk. Keeping calories in check is the most important dietary factor.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Drinking alcohol increases the risk of breast and colon cancers. Moderation is key, and young people should avoid alcohol altogether
Sun Protection
Overexposure to the sun and tanning beds increases the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma. Avoid peak sun hours, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing
Infection Protection
Some cancers are linked to infections (e.g., HPV, hepatitis B/C). Vaccinations, like the HPV vaccine, and infection prevention (safe sex, proper healthcare) reduce the risk
Regular Screening
Early detection through screening tests (e.g., for breast, cervical, colon cancers) is critical for prevention and treatment, helping to catch cancer in its early stages
Tests for Women
Tests for Men
Beltone’s Commitment to Breast Cancer and Mental
Health Awareness
At Beltone, we believe that health is a multifaceted concept, encompassing not only physical well-being but also mental and emotional resilience. This holistic approach to wellness is critical, especially when addressing significant health challenges such as breast cancer. Recognizing that physical illness can profoundly impact mental health, Beltone strives to foster a culture that prioritizes both mental and physical well-being. In line with our ongoing commitment to employee wellness and in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we recently hosted an in-depth Breast Cancer and Mental Health Awareness Session. This event was designed to deepen understanding of the intricate relationship between mental health and physical illness, particularly the emotional and psychological toll experienced by women undergoing breast cancer treatment. This awareness session, which was led by the esteemed “Walaa El Soly”, a Holistic Health and Well-being Coach and a breast cancer survivor, alongside “Ghada ElMarakby”, a Yoga Therapist and Life Coach specializing in holistic health, provided invaluable insights into the ways mental health intersects with physical recovery.
Together, they presented a wealth of knowledge drawn from their professional experiences and personal journeys. Their expertise offered employees practical guidance on how to manage the emotional and mental challenges often associated with a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The session emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to health that includes both physical care and mental well-being.
In a unique and engaging addition to the session, the attendees were also given the opportunity to participate in “guided yoga exercises” aimed at teaching them how to improve their posture and reduce physical strain during daily activities. The introduction of yoga was not just symbolic; it served as a practical demonstration of how “mind-body practices” can support physical health, especially during stressful or physically demanding times. “Ghada ElMarakby” led employees through a series of simple, yet highly effective, yoga moves that were tailored for the workplace, providing a much-needed break from the common stresses of sitting for long periods at desks.
Key Areas of Discussion
Understanding the Mind-Body Connection
One of the central themes of the session was the profound connection between the mind and body, particularly during illness. The speakers elaborated on how mental health can play a pivotal role in physical recovery, especially during the taxing periods of cancer treatment. They discussed how a positive mental state can significantly aid in coping with the side effects of treatment, enhancing resilience, and improving overall well-being. This section emphasized that the emotional strain of a breast cancer diagnosis often manifests in anxiety, depression, or heightened stress, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health proactively to support physical healing.
The Importance of Early Detection and Self-Examination
Another crucial component of the session focused on the importance of early detection of breast cancer. The experts emphasized that early detection is not only essential for improving treatment outcomes but also for reducing the mental and emotional burden that often accompanies a more advanced diagnosis. Employees were guided through the steps of conducting regular self-examinations, empowering them to take proactive steps in monitoring their breast health. This hands-on instruction included specific techniques for identifying potential signs of concern and offered clear guidance on when to seek medical advice. The emphasis was on being vigilant about personal health while also encouraging others to do the same, further promoting a supportive community within Beltone.
Coping Mechanisms for Patients
In addition to addressing the patient’s mental health, the session also offered practical coping mechanisms for both patients and their families. Managing stress, anxiety, and depression—common psychological responses to a serious illness—requires a variety of strategies. The speakers shared mindfulness techniques, including meditation, breathing exercises, and visualization methods, all of which are proven to help reduce stress levels. Attendees were also encouraged to foster open communication within their families, discussing their emotions and fears openly and recognizing when professional mental health support might be necessary. This discussion highlighted the importance of families providing emotional support and building a compassionate environment around the patient.
Yoga for Posture and Mental Well-being
A standout feature of the session was the “interactive yoga segment” led by Ghada ElMarakby. This portion of the event focused on teaching employees simple yet effective yoga postures that they can incorporate into their daily routines, especially during work hours. Poor posture, particularly from sitting at desks for extended periods, is a common issue in the workplace and can lead to physical discomfort, back pain, and reduced productivity. Recognizing the importance of physical alignment in overall well-being, ElMarakby guided the employees through yoga exercises specifically designed to help them sit in the correct position, alleviate back and neck tension, and promote better spinal alignment.
The exercises were accessible and easy to follow, ensuring that employees of all fitness levels could participate. Employees learned how to properly position their bodies to avoid slouching and how to engage their core muscles to support their posture. The movements also included gentle stretching techniques that helped relieve tension in the shoulders and lower back, areas commonly affected by prolonged sitting. By incorporating these exercises into their daily routines, employees were given the tools to prevent common work-related strains while simultaneously supporting their mental health through movement and mindfulness.
The Impact of Breast Cancer
• on Mental Health •
The event served as a powerful reminder that “breast cancer” doesn’t only affect the body; it has profound and long-lasting effects on mental health throughout the entire journey—from the initial diagnosis to the treatment phase, and even during recovery. Cancer patients often experience a wide range of emotional reactions, including fear, uncertainty, sadness, and frustration. These feelings can be compounded by the physical exhaustion and side effects of treatment. Recognizing these challenges, the session reinforced the idea that mental health support is a critical component of the overall recovery process. At Beltone, we are dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of seeking emotional support early and ensuring that mental health care is integrated into our wellness programs.
Learn how to label your feelings
Mind-body-Soul-Heart-Balance
Prioritizing Employee Safety:
Beltone’s
Commitment to a Secure and Healthy Workplace
At Beltone, the safety and well-being of our employees is not just a responsibility but a fundamental priority that we uphold at every level of the organization. We believe that a safe and secure working environment is the foundation for both individual and collective success. With this in mind, we have implemented numerous safety measures to ensure that every team member feels protected and supported throughout their time at the company. One of the key steps we’ve taken is the installation of fully equipped First Aid Boxes at critical locations within our office spaces. Whether you are at the reception area or on any floor of the building, you will find a first aid box strategically placed for easy access in case of any unforeseen medical issues or emergencies.
By placing first aid boxes on each floor and at the reception, we are taking concrete steps to ensure that emergency assistance is never far away. This is just one example of how we are continually investing in our employees’ safety, underscoring the belief that nothing is more important than their welfare. At Beltone, your safety is not only a policy—it is our unwavering promise.
Each first aid box contains a comprehensive range of supplies designed to handle minor injuries and provide immediate care until professional medical assistance can be obtained if necessary. These kits are regularly inspected and replenished to ensure that they are always ready for use, reflecting our proactive approach to health and safety. By making first aid easily accessible, we aim to provide a swift response to any situation that may arise, minimizing potential risks and ensuring that our employees are always in good hands.
This commitment to safety is part of our larger goal to create a workplace environment that is not only productive but also compassionate and responsive to the needs of our team members. We understand that the well-being of our employees directly impacts the overall success of the company, and we are committed to ensuring that every individual who works at Beltone can do so in an environment that prioritizes their health, safety, and peace of mind.
Celebrating Achievements:
Sama Ramy and the
"Ideal City" Initiative
At Beltone, we take immense pride in our diverse and talented team, and we are particularly excited to spotlight the remarkable achievement of our colleague, Sama Ramy. As an employee with disabilities, Sama embodies resilience, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference in the world around her. Her recent project on the “Ideal City” stands as a testament to her dedication and vision for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Sama had the honor of presenting her project at the renowned Expo Dubai, a global platform that showcases innovation and development from around the world. In her presentation, she articulated a compelling vision for cities that prioritize not only environmental sustainability but also inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. The initiative is designed to promote awareness about creating urban environments that are accessible, safe, and supportive for everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.
Her work is not just a project; it represents a vital movement towards inclusivity in urban development. By raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, she is helping to shift perceptions and inspire action within our communities. Her passion for environmental sustainability and social equity serves as an inspiration to us all, encouraging us to advocate for policies and practices that support inclusivity in every aspect of society.
At Beltone, we are committed to supporting our employees in their pursuits, and Sama’s success at Expo Dubai is a shining example of what can be achieved when talent, determination, and vision come together. We believe that her contributions will leave a lasting impact on the discourse surrounding urban planning and inclusivity, paving the way for future initiatives that prioritize the needs of all citizens. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of her work in the community and the continued promotion of such essential initiatives within our organization.
Beltone Signs the ERA Pledge for Equal Representation in Arbitration
Beltone Holding proudly announces its commitment to equality in the financial sector by signing The ERA Pledge, which promotes equal representation in arbitration, particularly for women. This initiative reinforces our dedication to creating an inclusive environment within our organization and the broader financial community.
Established by the Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA), The ERA Pledge emphasizes the importance of hearing diverse voices—especially those of women—in arbitration processes. By signing this pledge, Beltone reaffirms its commitment to transparency, diversity, and inclusion.
We recognize that women’s representation in decision-making roles is essential for fostering innovation and achieving better outcomes. By promoting equal representation in arbitration, we empower all individuals to share their unique perspectives.
As we implement practices that support women’s representation, we look forward to collaborating with other signatories to advance gender equality in finance. Thank you for your continued support as we take this significant step forward.
Sustainability Interview Corner
