KZ: Hi Audrey! How did you find out about the World’s Greatest Shave?

A: One of my classmates participated in The World's Greatest Shave in 2021, and I had no idea what it was about. I told my mum that I would like to do it, and she explained the cause and the fundraising process. I was inspired to want to shave my hair off to help people with blood cancer. My big sister wanted to help and be my campaign manager. We selected the $10,000 goal so we could raise as much money as possible.

KZ: How long did you fundraise for the World’s Greatest Shave?

A: I knew I would need a long time to raise $10,000 so I started fundraising straight away after signing up. I gave myself one year to reach my goal. I reached out to our local community, and everyone was very generous, donating cans and bottles for me to Return & Earn. I raised over $1000 from cans and bottles alone. We had garage sales selling stuff we no longer used. I made scrunchies and other school accessories to sell outside our house and at school election BBQs. We posted on our socials about donations for my birthday, and I asked Santa for a donation for Christmas. My sister and mum managed the social media. We wanted to promote and thank my supporters, and show that I was working hard before asking businesses for donations. We contacted businesses and brands that we love, hoping they would donate or provide products we could sell for donations. My dance school, Action Dance, did a big fundraising event and raised my biggest one-off donation of $1370. Another charity was running a competition and I submitted a Trick Shot for Jersey Day and they donated $500!

KZ: Why is the World’s Greatest Shave an important event?

A: It is important for awareness about blood cancer. I did not know anything about blood cancer before the World’s Greatest Shave. I received many messages from strangers, and parents whose children had been through treatment or were going through treatment. Adults also shared their personal stories. The stories were sad, but gave me more determination to succeed, and I felt like I was doing something important. There are badges to earn along the way, so I knew how my fundraising was helping. I also grew my hair really long over the year, and was able to donate my hair to another charity for wigs.

KZ: Any advice for K-Zoners considering fundraising for World’s Greatest Shave?

A: I think it is amazing that kids like me can do something so special and rewarding. It’s an incredible experience and brings so many positives. I want you to know that no matter what, you will have so many supporters. A neighbour gave $40 for one old book at my garage sale. I feel like my whole community came together to help me achieve my goal.

Want to read the full Heroes interview with Audrey? Grab the March 2024 'Mission To Build' issue of K-Zone, on sale now!

Want to shave, cut, or colour your hair for the World's Greatest Shave from March 17-23, 2024? For more info, visit www.worldsgreatestshave.com!

Have you done World's Greatest Shave, or are you currently fundraising? Let us know in the comments!