The 2040 Initiative

Empowering today. Protecting tomorrow.

A global mission to end breast cancer in young women.

Prof. Aaron Ciechanover
Nobel Laureate in Chemistry
Scientific Advisor, BCYW Foundation

A global mission to empower young women early — before risk becomes reality.

Start early.
Detect early.
Save lives.

Lawrence J. DeLucas
U.S. Astronaut
Global Ambassador, BCYW Foundation

Together, we can change the future

Breast cancer in young women under 40 is rising. The women of 2040 are 19 today — already among us as our students, daughters, colleagues, friends and the communities we serve. This is no longer a distant risk. It is a present reality.

First Circle BCYW Awareness is built on a simple but powerful idea: awareness begins with those around us and those we engage with every day.

Rising incidence of breast cancer in young women — based on the mean age of BCYW under 39 diagnosed in 2040, those likely to be diagnosed then are about 19 years old now (BCYW under 39, 2040 mean age 33.71).

Four pillars

Together, we can change the future

Global Awareness

Amplifying the importance of breast health in young women.

Early Empowerment

Educating and empowering young women with knowledge and tools.

Early Detection

Promoting regular screening and proactive care.

Saving Lives

Creating a future where every young woman is protected.

Championed by

World-class advocates for young women's health

The initiative is guided by extraordinary global figures who co-sign milestone certificates for our collaborators.

Prof. Aaron Ciechanover

Nobel Laureate in Chemistry

Scientific Advisor, BCYW Foundation

Lawrence J. DeLucas

U.S. Astronaut

Global Ambassador, BCYW Foundation

How it works

Awareness as a habit, not a one-time campaign

We invite everyone who reads this — and your organisation — to take one intentional step: reach 10–25 individuals in your network each month using BCYWF's ready-to-share Breast Health & Cancer Awareness materials, vetted by medical experts.

Read or download the 2040 Initiative Flyer

No fundraising. No reporting of personal details. Just share your reach numbers monthly or quarterly.

2040FirstCircle@bcywf.com

100+reach out
Recognition on our website (with logo / photo)
250+reach out
Certificate of Contribution
500+reach out
Certificate co-signed by Global Ambassador, U.S. Astronaut Lawrence J. DeLucas
1,000+reach out
Certificate co-signed by Nobel Laureate Prof. Aaron Ciechanover and Lawrence J. DeLucas