Sara Benjamin Cherian's Story
Herself a cancer survivor, Sara Benjamin Cherian makes wigs free of cost for other cancer warriors. An entrepreneur, philanthropist, and devoted mother, she is a trustee on The Cherian Foundation’s board, channelling her passion into impactful initiatives. Renowned for spearheading the Gift Hair, Gift Confidence campaign, Sara promotes hair donation to craft wigs for cancer patients, enhancing their self-confidence during treatment. Inspired by personal loss and a family tradition of wig making, Sara collaborated with the Adyar Cancer Institute in 2014, subsequently expanding this altruistic venture nationwide.
Edited excerpts from an interview:
What is the main challenge you have faced?
With the Gift Hair, Gift Confidence initiative, our mission is clear: to empower unprivileged cancer patients with the confidence and support they need to face their journey with dignity and resilience. From addressing the prohibitive cost of wigs to streamlining the distribution process, we are committed to providing high-quality wigs that mimic the natural scalp, along with comprehensive support services. Through ongoing collaboration with hospitals and innovative programmes such as wig refurbishment, we aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by cancer-related hair loss.
What has been your biggest joy on this ‘good’ journey?
Witnessing the transformative impact of our initiative on the lives of cancer patients. Seeing the smiles and renewed sense of confidence on the faces of recipients when they receive natural human hair wigs, along with the support and encouragement from our donors and supporters, brings immense joy and fulfilment. I’m happy that, since its inception in 2014, Gift Hair, Gift Confidence has provided wigs to cancer patients, marking a decade of dedicated service.
What keeps you going?
My own cancer journey in 2020 inspired a deeper commitment to supporting patients facing hair loss, reinforcing our mission to provide empowerment and hope. Through personal experience, I’ve realised the profound importance of empathy and support.
What is your message?
Cancer isn’t just physical – it’s an emotional rollercoaster. My aim is to inspire hope and resilience. Together, we can overcome any obstacle with determination and support.
Edited excerpts from an interview:
What is the main challenge you have faced?
With the Gift Hair, Gift Confidence initiative, our mission is clear: to empower unprivileged cancer patients with the confidence and support they need to face their journey with dignity and resilience. From addressing the prohibitive cost of wigs to streamlining the distribution process, we are committed to providing high-quality wigs that mimic the natural scalp, along with comprehensive support services. Through ongoing collaboration with hospitals and innovative programmes such as wig refurbishment, we aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by cancer-related hair loss.
What has been your biggest joy on this ‘good’ journey?
Witnessing the transformative impact of our initiative on the lives of cancer patients. Seeing the smiles and renewed sense of confidence on the faces of recipients when they receive natural human hair wigs, along with the support and encouragement from our donors and supporters, brings immense joy and fulfilment. I’m happy that, since its inception in 2014, Gift Hair, Gift Confidence has provided wigs to cancer patients, marking a decade of dedicated service.
What keeps you going?
My own cancer journey in 2020 inspired a deeper commitment to supporting patients facing hair loss, reinforcing our mission to provide empowerment and hope. Through personal experience, I’ve realised the profound importance of empathy and support.
What is your message?
Cancer isn’t just physical – it’s an emotional rollercoaster. My aim is to inspire hope and resilience. Together, we can overcome any obstacle with determination and support.
About mamaearth
Founded by husband-wife duo Ghazal Alagh and Varun Alagh, Mamaearth is a purpose-led beauty and personal care brand built on the core philosophy of "Goodness Inside". Driven by innovation and using the best of science and nature, Mamaearth has created a portfolio of toxin-free products by adding the goodness of natural ingredients inspired from traditional Indian DIY recipes. Along with the goodness in their products, Mamaearth strongly believes that goodness starts with the little choices we make in our daily lives, and it is what makes us truly beautiful.