Andover resident Judith Davey-Cole, CEO of Girls’ Brigade, is embarking on an inspiring series of challenges to raise money and awareness for the Girls’ Brigade.
Her campaign kicked off last week with a bold statement: a head shave. Judith hopes that by putting herself out there, she can shine a light on the incredible work being done by the Girls’ Brigade in communities like hers.
“I was at Thomas Roskilly in Andover with Councillor Iris Andersen, the hardworking councillor for Andover St Mary’s, along with friends and supporters,” Judith shared. “I’m raising £2,000 to do my part to help the Girls’ Brigade give girls and young women confidence, skills, and experience so that they can become the leaders of tomorrow. They have groups across the country, and the one in Andover meets on Bridge Street on Fridays. It’s ably led by Marian, Anne, and two young women. Girls’ Brigade does awesome work in building girls’ skills and confidence so they’re equipped to play leading roles in their communities and contribute to society.”
Judith’s commitment to this cause is evident in her plan: to take on 14 different challenges over the next few days, all of which are terrifying her—shaving her head, holding a snake, riding sidesaddle, endurance dancing, and a bunch of other stuff. The head shave, which marked the start of this ambitious series, was a powerful act of solidarity with the message of the Girls’ Brigade. Councillor Iris Andersen was on hand to make the first cut, a symbolic gesture of support for Judith’s campaign.
Reflecting on the experience, Judith said, “I look very different afterwards, but there’s an important link to the work that Girls’ Brigade does with our girls. We focus on inner beauty rather than what we look like—celebrating what’s in people’s hearts rather than outward appearances. I don’t always succeed, but I try my best to be the best person that I can be.”
Judith is currently arranging permissions with Test Valley Borough Council to spend two hours reading Shakespeare on the High Street in Andover. We will bring you every challenge that Judith undertakes.
Judith’s passion and determination to support the Girls’ Brigade are sure to make a positive impact. Her efforts not only raise funds but also highlight the value of the organisation’s mission—to empower girls and young women to develop their potential and make meaningful contributions to society. Please donate if you can to support thousands of girls across England and Wales. You can see Judith’s progress on her website: judithdavey-cole.org. Stay tuned for more updates on Judith’s challenges and how you can support her journey! You can donate at https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/judithdavey-cole
