Charles Lomu and Kiko from our Garage Barbershop project look critically at the art of barbering.
six_fades Last Day at the #GarageBarbershopExhibtion with Kiko giving his first razor fade and nailing it [Instagram]
Kiko | It’s the lifestyle, there are rules and it’s more about how you live your life. It’s about being clean and respectful.
Charles | Barbering has such a huge culture and history. Fundamentally, it’s about customer service and service to others. The importance of teaching young men barbering today is that we live in a society where everything is going digital. But one thing that’s for sure is that you’ll never be able to automate a haircut online. It’s something that will still be in need in years to come, so I find it a very important skill to pass on to young men. And it’s more than just a haircut – it’s about knowing how to communicate, knowing how to present yourself well, knowing how to treat others with respect, and it’s knowing how to be a good listener.
As a barber, do you have a signature cut?
Charles | The fade – it’s something I’ve always loved since I was a kid. I’m a big fan of hip-hop and street culture. I think the urban art of fading is something that represents street fashion, or street culture, and I love it. I think it makes people look clean and very smart.
six_fades Give a man to fish, Feed him for a day Teach a man to fish, Feed him for a lifetime [Instagram]
Kiko | I’m not really sure yet, to be honest. I don’t really have a signature cut, but the main one I always do is a mid-fade. From the neckline, you go from zero, to one and a half and then two – using the ear as a guide.
Kiko, what have you learnt from Charles during the Garage Barbershop project?
Kiko | He’s taught us this important thing, called the 5 Cs, which are consistency, cleanliness, customer service, commitments and cuts.
Charles, what have the young men taught you?
Charles | They’ve taught me that it’s important to be a role model, to set an example in what I do rather than just what I say.
They’ve also reminded me of how important this role is, of giving back to the community.
@six_fades First #FreeHaircut of the day by @_kinggjeezy_ on Irishman Patrick who brought stories of laughter and could easily be a successful stand up comedian. Young ones feel comfortable around their peers but growth awaits the young one who draws from the untapped wisdom of the elderly. [Instagram]
They’ve taught me the importance of education by demonstration.
I’ve learnt much of an impact we can be when we work together as a community. The services, youth workers such as myself at the grass roots level, the young people, the young people’s families, the parents, everybody working together and supporting one another makes a huge difference.
By Michelle Lo
Photos
Feature Image: Garage Barbershop by Harold David
Other Images: @six_fades