Ponytail Project 2025
Coco Chanel once said “A woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life”, this quote sums up almost perfectly an experience for over 20 students this week as they took part in the Ponytail Project. The only change I would suggest to Coco’s words would be “A Saints Girl who cuts her hair is about to change someone else’s life”.
Tuesday this week under the leadership of Community Service Prefect Kate Thomas and Rev Thomas Bassett, 28 students bravely stood in front of a crowd to have their ponytails cut off, all in the name of raising awareness and funds for cancer research while also donating their hair to be made into wigs for cancer patients. The Girls who had been growing their hair since late last year raised a staggering $19,000 for cancer research and patient support, while also being able to donate their hair.
It takes immense strength and trust to let a friend loose with scissors on your hair. Our hair shapes our identity, it’s an outward form of communication about our personality, our cultural connections and self-expression. For our girls who are growing up in a society that is quick to critique based on appearance they demonstrated compassion and courage by taking part. Driven to help those in our community who need it most, Saint’s Girls didn’t let fear hold them back. Francine Stavrou, when asked if she was scared about cutting her hair, shared “I was a little scared to chop off my hair at first as this would be a massive change for me, but I realised how fortunate I am to be in the position to help. The fear of losing some hair was quickly overcome by the excitement that I would be able to make a positive impact on those battling cancer whilst also being able to fundraise for research and services.”
Likewise, Alice Morel was also scared to take part but drew strength from those she was aiming to help “I told myself that some kids are going through cancer treatments and would be so much more scared than I could ever be, so cutting my hair is the least I could do.”
Community Service Prefect Kate Thomas beautifully summed up the experience. Inspired to help others, Kate recognised the contribution that people make to their community “no matter big or small, we can significantly impact the lives of others. The flow on effect of support and awareness is so rewarding to witness, even a small contribution plays a part within the bigger picture.”
