---
title: Why I Keep Coming Back to Movember Every Year
description: What started as a bit of fun became something more meaningful. Mark Rademaker, Executive General Manager HR shares why Movember still matters to him today.
---

[Men Connect](https://blog.programmed.com.au/men-connect)

# [Why I Keep Coming Back to Movember Every Year](https://blog.programmed.com.au/men-connect/why-i-keep-coming-back-to-movember-every-year)

 Written by [Facility Management](https://blog.programmed.com.au/men-connect/author/facility-management) | Oct 8, 2026, 2:28:22 AM

Every November since 2013, I've done the same thing.

I shave off the beard, grow a moustache and put myself out there in support of Movember.

What started as a bit of fun and a chance to have a laugh has become one of the causes I care about most.

If I'm being honest, when I first signed up, it was mainly about growing a ridiculous moustache and seeing where it would end up. There was plenty of banter, plenty of bad facial hair and plenty of laughs. I never imagined that more than a decade later I'd still be doing it, nor that the support of family, friends and colleagues would help raise more than $32,000 for men's health initiatives.

Over the years, the meaning behind Movember has changed for me.

As I've gotten older, I've seen more examples of the impact that men's health issues can have on individuals, families and communities. I've seen the importance of looking after our physical health, our mental health and checking in on those around us. What started as a bit of fun has become an opportunity to give something back, raise awareness and hopefully encourage a few conversations that otherwise might not happen.

Mental health has always mattered to me. One of the things I love about Movember is that it creates a reason to ask, "R U OK?" It gives us permission to start conversations that might feel a little awkward at other times. Just as importantly, it is a reminder to men not to ignore their health. If something doesn't feel right, get it checked. If something doesn't look right, see your doctor. Book the annual health check. Have the conversation. Taking action early is always better than wishing you had.

Of course, there is also the moustache itself.

Over the years the mo has taken on a life of its own. It is often referred to in the third person as though it has its own personality. The first person who donates each year traditionally gets to choose the style, which can be both exciting and slightly terrifying. Weekly updates become mandatory, progress photos are expected and there is always plenty of feedback from supporters, whether you ask for it or not.

The moustache may start on my face, but by the end of November it somehow belongs to everyone.

As anyone who knows me will tell you, I'm also incredibly competitive. I genuinely enjoy the fundraising side of Movember. I enjoy setting goals, tracking progress and, yes, occasionally pestering people for donations. Fortunately, most people are willing to forgive a bit of fundraising harassment when it is for a good cause.

What continually amazes me is the generosity of people. Every year I set out hoping to raise a few dollars and every year people exceed my expectations. Whether it's a small donation, a large contribution or simply sharing the cause with others, the support is humbling. Raising more than $32,000 over the years is something I never expected and something I am incredibly grateful for.

Beyond the fundraising, one of my favourite parts of Movember is the sense of community it creates.

Throughout November, conversations appear everywhere. You find yourself discussing growth rates, comparing moustache styles, commenting on progress and encouraging others who are taking part. Some people produce magnificent moustaches. Others, like me, spend parts of the month wondering whether theirs will ever properly arrive. Either way, it creates connection, laughter and shared experiences.

In a world where everyone is busy, those moments matter.

So why do I keep doing it every year?

Because men's health matters.

Because mental health matters.

Because early detection matters.

Because conversations matter.

Because raising awareness matters.

And because I've seen firsthand just how generous people can be when they get behind a cause they believe in.

What started as a laugh in 2013 has become a tradition, a personal commitment and a cause I'm incredibly proud to support. The moustache might only last a month, but the conversations, awareness and impact last much longer.

To everyone who has donated, encouraged, laughed at my moustache, chosen a questionable style, followed the weekly updates or simply shared the journey along the way, thank you.

I genuinely couldn't do it without you.

**Thinking About Joining?**

If you've ever considered participating in Movember, I'd encourage you to give it a go.

You don't need to be an expert fundraiser. You don't need to grow the perfect moustache. And trust me, you definitely don't need great facial hair genetics.

What you do need is a willingness to put yourself out there, have a bit of fun and support a cause that genuinely makes a difference.

In my experience, the fundraising is only part of the story. The conversations, awareness, laughs and sense of community that develop throughout the month are just as rewarding. You'll be surprised by how many people get behind you, how many stories are shared and how often a simple conversation about a moustache can turn into a meaningful discussion about health and wellbeing.

For me, what started as a laugh in 2013 has become a tradition and a cause I care deeply about. If you've been sitting on the fence about joining, make this the year. Grow a mo, move for Movember, raise some funds, support men's health and have some fun along the way.

Who knows? Thirteen years from now, you might still be talking about your first Movember campaign too.

And if your moustache ends up looking terrible, don't worry. That's all part of the experience.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout the years. Together we've raised more than $32,000, started countless conversations and helped shine a light on issues that affect men every day. That's something worth celebrating, and it's a journey I'd love to see more people be part of.

Ready to join the movement? Join the Programmed Movember team and help us raise awareness, start important conversations and support better outcomes for men's mental health and physical health.

Sign up or donate via the [Programmed Australia Movember Team](https://au.movember.com/mospace/network/view/id/50035?mc=1) or the [Programmed New Zealand Movember Team](https://au.movember.com/mospace/network/view/id/50035?mc=1). To learn more about the cause and the impact of Movember, visit the [Movember website](https://au.movember.com/).

[View full post](https://blog.programmed.com.au/men-connect/why-i-keep-coming-back-to-movember-every-year)

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