Internationally renowned hair stylist and social media sensation, Kaine Vakai, joins ACRF to launch the 2026 Brave Shave fundraising campaign

Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) has announced Kaine Vakai, hair artistry extraordinaire, content creator and founder of the award-winning salon Haus of Vakai, as its new ambassador for Brave Shave. Together, they are calling on Australians to take a stand against cancer by participating in its annual Brave Shave campaign. 

Whilst he is renowned for his hair transformations, Kaine has worked extensively with people going through cancer treatment, specialising in hair restorations and transformations for clients who have lost their hair, or managing their new post-chemo growth.

“For many, your hair is more than aesthetics, it’s deeply tied to self-esteem and identity. I love helping clients express their true selves so they feel strong, confident, and happy.” Kaine said.

Registrations are now open for Brave Shave 2026, inviting individuals and communities to shave, cut, or colour their hair in solidarity with those impacted by cancer while raising vital funds for pioneering cancer research.

Every act of bravery helps fuel groundbreaking projects across Australia, providing researchers with the cutting-edge technology, equipment, and infrastructure needed to prevent, diagnose, and treat all forms of cancer – helping to move us closer to a world without the disease.

How to join Brave Shave:

• Visit fundraise.acrf.com.au/event/brave-shave-2026
• Choose to shave, cut, or colour - how brave are you?
• Rally friends, family, and your community to support your bold and brave transformation and support those who face cancer every day.

“Every day, many Australians demonstrate extraordinary courage in the face of cancer. By shaving, cutting, or colouring your hair this September, you stand with the brave while backing brilliant ideas that are transforming the future of cancer research and care in Australia, and ultimately around the world. We’re thrilled to have Kaine onboard this year to support Brave Shave.”

With more than 2 in 5 Australians expected to be diagnosed with cancer by age 85, and around 465 new diagnoses every day, the need for ground-breaking, world-class research has never been greater.

Since 1984, ACRF has invested more than $209 million in 93 pioneering research projects across 44 cancer research organisations throughout Australia. This support has backed landmark breakthroughs, including the world’s first cervical cancer vaccine, precision medicine programs aiming for zero childhood cancer deaths, and the innovative MRI-Linac technology that improves patient outcomes and reduces treatment trauma. Yet, there is still a way to go.

Brave Shave participants receive full support from the ACRF team, including fundraising resources, tips, and encouragement. Exciting prizes and incentives are available to motivate fundraisers throughout the campaign.