Guinness World Record
Cyprus Against Cancer – The Longest Bra Chain Initiative
In 2006, after only one year of preparation that began in 2005, under the motto Cyprus Against Cancer, Skevi Neocleous led one of the most ambitious awareness initiatives ever undertaken on the island.
Moved by the growing impact of breast cancer and the silence that often surrounded the subject, she mobilised her Correct Bra Fitting Centres, her staff and the wider community to create a national movement of awareness and solidarity.
The objective was bold: to break the existing world record for the longest chain of bras and transform the campaign into a powerful public statement encouraging early detection, regular breast examinations and open conversation.
Across Cyprus, thousands of women contributed. Collection points were placed in public buildings, businesses and community spaces. Media coverage amplified the message. The phrase “Did you give your bra for the chain?” became part of everyday dialogue.
The campaign extended internationally, with strong support from the Greek Cypriot community in London and contributions arriving from across Europe, North America including Alaska, and beyond.
On April 30, 2006, at the historic port of Paphos, volunteers connected 114,782 bras into a continuous chain stretching 111 kilometres, surpassing the previous record by 51 kilometres and securing international recognition through the Guinness World Records.
Beyond numbers, the initiative achieved something greater. It opened conversations once avoided. It encouraged women to seek early breast examinations and greater awareness of their health. Through countless television appearances, interviews, magazine articles and public lectures, Skevi carried the message across the country and beyond, transforming the campaign into a powerful educational movement.
This achievement reflects leadership, courage and the power of disciplined vision.
