Shaving in Solidarity: RCN’s 2026 Bald for a Cause Event
RCN students went bald for childhood cancer and none of them regret it.
Last month, on April 24, UWC RCN hosted its “Bald for a Cause” event to raise funds for Barnekreftforeningen (The Norwegian Childhood Cancer Association), a national organization run by parents who have experienced childhood cancer. The organization offers peer support, parent meetings at hospitals, and activities that create positive experiences for families.
The organizers were inspired by other UWC schools and proposed the initiative to the student body almost a month before the event. At schools such as UWC Costa Rica, “Bald for a Cause” is already an annual event and has grown into a 19-year tradition.
During the event, RCN students shaved or cut their hair in solidarity with cancer patients and donated it to a Finnish company that uses hair to help clean oil spills in the ocean.
Before cutting their hair, many students shared worries about not liking their new appearance, especially with graduation so near. Still, the purpose of the initiative ultimately felt more important. As one student put it, “It’s not just me — I’m doing something with my classmates and friends that means so much more than hair could ever do.”
A month later, none of the students seem to regret their choice. “Today I look at myself and I just think, wow, amazing. Not having hair affected me less than I thought it would, and I don’t regret my decision one bit,” shared one second-year student.
Organizers hope to bring the event back next year, and even earlier in the school year, to encourage more participation. “More people can join even if they’re worried about starting a new chapter of their life with very short hair,” one organizer explained, referring to students graduating only weeks after shaving or cutting their hair.
For those who may still feel hesitant, the organizers emphasize that the event is about more than fundraising. “It’s not only a good cause but community bonding as well. You can find joy even in being bald. You have a whole supportive community to do so.”
If you’ve ever thought about going bald, a UWC campus might just be the best place to take the leap.
