Most fundraisers involve running shoes, sponsored silences or the occasional brave dip in cold water. Roddy, one of our very own magazine salesmen, decided to do things a little differently. Armed with a razor and a healthy sense of humour, he shaved his beard straight down the middle and then lived with the consequences for a full week.
Yes, a full seven days of meetings, coffees, handshakes and raised eyebrows, all while sporting half a beard and half a freshly shaved face. It was impossible to ignore, which of course was entirely the point.
Roddy’s half-beard challenge was undertaken to raise funds for Cultura Contra Balas, a local NGO dedicated to supporting young people affected by the war in Ukraine. The stunt officially began on Saturday 10 January at Calle Convent 3 in Jesús Pobre, during a special live music event featuring 13 incredibly talented young Ukrainian musicians. The music was beautiful, the atmosphere was warm, and the shave itself was, frankly, hilarious.
Behind the laughter, however, lies a deeply serious mission. Cultura Contra Balas focuses on the psychological recovery of war victims and has already helped 374 people through rehabilitation camps for women, doctors and children. In early 2026, the organisation will welcome two new groups of Ukrainian women to a recovery camp in Jávea, where professional volunteer psychologists will provide essential trauma support.
Roddy saw the challenge through to the end, and the results speak for themselves. After seven days and countless double-takes from the public, he has raised well over €1,000 for the charity. Not bad for half a beard.
The grand finale came with a full shave, generously provided free of charge by Ana of Creative Hair Salon in Javea, an existing advertiser and supporter of the magazine. Their gesture helped close the fundraiser in style and deserves a big thank you. While they rose magnificently to the occasion of this rather unconventional request, Creative would like it known that they also excel in perfectly normal haircuts, colours and styling for everyday humans. Whether you’re after a tidy trim, a bold new look or simply not half a beard, they’ve got you covered.
It was a week of laughs, conversations and community spirit, all in support of something truly important. Proof that sometimes, looking a little ridiculous can help make a very real difference.
Please support if you can: https://gofund.me/a71361ed5