In 2025 Funny Women proudly launched The Glitter Challenge, and this year we’re mentoring nine amazing women who have taken on a unique Comedy Challenge to raise vital funds for The Glitter Project. Each challenger is being mentored by an experienced comedian, helping them write and perfect their own unique five minute set. The challenge culminates with a night of stand up, our challengers appearing live on stage at the world’s largest arts festival, Edinburgh Fringe 2026.
The funds we raise from The Glitter Challenge will go towards giving women and non-binary people from all walks of life, access to incredible creative opportunities in a safe, inclusive environment.
Let’s meet our next challenger… Donna Gray.
Donna (aka Donzi) is a fifty-something unlikely micro influencer and big-knicker model trying to keep up with a world that’s changing faster than she can spell it. Diagnosed with dyslexia in her 40s, she finally realised she’d been living life back to front. Now she’s reached the age where she gives far fewer f**ks. From beauty tweakments and content creation to the baffling terminology of modern language, nothing is off limits.
The Glitter Challenge journey is a masterclass in growth and mentorship. We caught up with Donna and asked about her comedy inspirations and what she hopes to gain from the experience:
Why did you join the Glitter Challenge?
I started my career as a dancer, basically being decoration behind famous 90’s comedians. Every night I’d watch them making the audience laugh and think “One day, I want that job.” Twenty-odd years later, the Glitter Challenge came along and I thought “Finally… time to scratch that itch.”
What or who inspires your creativity and comedy writing?
Life inspires my comedy. Those moments when something happens and you completely lose your shit. Like the time my mum proudly carried an apple crumble to the table, tripped, and launched it across the room. Or when I accidentally ordered 153 courgettes in my online shop… I only needed three. Those are the moments that have you crying with laughter before thinking, “Right…“I have to write this down.”
How do you see the Glitter Challenge supporting your future goals?
I’ve always admired the Funny Women community, and I think the Glitter Challenge will open doors by introducing me to brilliant, like-minded women who love making people laugh. I’m excited to build my confidence, make new friends, and learn from experienced comedians who can offer the kind of outside perspective that helps you grow.
Come along to the Groucho Club in London and support our brilliant Glitter Challengers as they preview their Edinburgh Fringe show! Book your tickets now to catch them first.
Heading to Edinburgh this August? Catch Donna and the rest of the Glitter Challengers live at the Fringe on 17th August. Tickets and more information can be found here!
