Shaving for a Cause – Living Beyond Limits

Posted on May 14, 2025

On the 13th of May, the Piazza came alive with colour, compassion, and courage as students and staff came together for the CANSA Shavathon, held as part of the Beyond Limits event hosted by Docendo Day House. The air buzzed with purpose as heads were shaved, hair was sprayed in bold colours, and powerful stories of resilience echoed through the crowd.

The CANSA Shavathon is one of South Africa’s most iconic cancer awareness campaigns. It gives people a chance to show solidarity with cancer patients — many of whom lose their hair during treatment — while raising much-needed funds for CANSA’s support programmes.

Beyond Hair – A Movement of Hope
This year, the Shavathon was not just an activity — it was a heartfelt expression of empathy woven into the energy of the Beyond Limits event. Docendo Day House brought the campus community together to go beyond expectations, beyond comfort zones, and beyond limits in showing support for those affected by cancer.

From students shaving their heads in solidarity to friends cheering each other on while spraying their hair with every colour imaginable, the Shavathon created a space of unity and care. It reminded us all that even small acts — a spray of colour, a shaved head, or a simple donation — can have a big impact.

Making a Difference, One Head at a Time
All proceeds from the Shavathon go directly to CANSA’s vital care programmes, including support groups, counselling services, screening initiatives, and equipment for patients. By participating in this event, the Docendo community helped ensure that cancer patients receive the support and dignity they deserve.

Thank You for Standing in Solidarity
A huge thank you goes to Docendo Day House for hosting the event, to everyone who participated, and to the volunteers who made the day so special. Through your energy and commitment, you’ve helped bring hope and light to those fighting cancer.

Because of you, no one fights alone.


Want to support the cause?
It’s not too late to get involved. Visit https://shavathon.org.za to donate, learn more, or find your next opportunity to take part.

- Author Makgoshi Mariri

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