Movember is a global charity committed to men living happier, healthier and longer lives. Since 2003, millions have joined the men’s health movement, raising $685 million and funding over 1,000 programs focusing on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, poor mental health and physical inactivity.
So we caught up with Jimmy Niggles (who fondly refers to his beard as ‘a luscious and captivating neck-mane of rich mahogany’), the founder of Beard Season – a non profit charity responsible for a global movement which raises awareness on skin cancer and encourages young people to regularly check for melanoma. There are some seriously incredible people in this world – and Jimmy’s one of em’.
“WHAT IS BEARD SEASON?”
Beard Season started after we lost our mate to melanoma at the age of 26. His name was Wes Bonny. At his wake we decided to start something so this wouldn’t happen again to anyone we knew and loved.
After a quick Google, we soon discovered melanoma to be one of the most deadly cancers in the world, yet one of the most preventable if detected early. So, we thought whatever it is we started should encourage people to have regular skin checks because no one was actively encouraging them.
The next question was how. Lucky for us there were some old farmers in the corner of the bar who had amazing wizard beards. Which got us thinking, why didn’t blokes our age rock the beard? They’d stand out, give us a little sun protection and everyone would ask about them giving us the perfect excuse to talk about our mate Wes while challenging them to get a check.
“THREE WAYS TO FIGHT AGAINST MELANOMA FOR MEN?”
Since then we’ve been inviting gentlemen to grow a beard for winter, get a skin check and spread the word. Now we get an average of a message a week from someone who’s life we’ve saved because of our friendly advice.
CHECK OUT: BEARD SEASON INSTAGRAM PAGE
“WHY DO YOU THINK SO MANY MEN DECIDE TO GROW A BEARD WHEN THEY’RE TRAVELLING?”
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Jimmy Niggles: A beard is a truly marvellous thing. Some love it. Some hate it. But I think it’s natural to be curious about how good a beard you can grow. And it’s been amazing to see more and more gentlemen try it. Particularly if it can save lives.
As for travel, packing your bags and heading away on an adventure can be a seriously liberating experience.
It strips back the pressure of society and norms of the daily grind. It challenges you to become more. See more, do more and be open to this amazing world we call home. If spending ten more minutes every day doing this instead of scraping your face in front of a mirror is the price. It’s well worth the ride.
“WERE YOU LUCKY ENOUGH TO FIND OTHER BEARDED MEN OVERSEAS?”
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Jimmy Niggles: Yes indeed. Even a few of our ambassadors.
“ANY TIPS OR ADVICE ON HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR BEARD WHEN YOU’RE TRAVELLING?”
Jimmy Niggles: Swim in the sea. Particularly the Aegean if you get the chance. Keep it well oiled, groomed and never far from good conversation. Grow on…
For more information on Beard season and skin cancer, please head to their website and guys – grow your beards and always always stay safe in the sun!
Be part of the Movember movement and raise awareness on men’s health this November.