THE kid can cut hair – and he’ll be on the clippers and combs free-of-charge for the next couple of Saturday mornings at Bank Art Museum Moree as part of the Garage Barbershop program.
Jake Frey didn’t expect much when he first walked into Garage Barbershop. He was quiet and unsure of what the program involved.
But the ambitious 15-year-old soon found himself absorbed in hands-on lessons, positive peer support and a mentor who encouraged him to give it a go – give it his best shot.
Today, Jake is an emerging junior barber with growing skills, strong friendships and a more assured sense of himself.
The Garage Barbershop initiative is supported by the NSW Premier’s Department and GrainCorp, and earlier this year, BAMM’s garage was transformed into a pop-up barbershop, led by self-taught master barber and mentor, Charles Lomu.
After meeting Charles, Jake realised taking part in the Garage Barbershop was more than just an excuse to dodge a few lessons.
“I’m not going to lie – at first, I thought it would get me out of school for a little while,” he smiled.
“Walking in, I wasn’t sure how it was going to go. I kept to myself and sat back, observing until I was more comfortable with the group.
“But then I met Charles, and settled in.”
Learning the Garage Barbershop way – the special way Charles Lomu connected with pupils – made all the difference.
“I wasn’t being talked at in a harsh way, and after talking (for a little while), the lesson turned into practice, and was more hands-on,” Jake said.
“I was surprised just how well we all got along. Not a bad word was spoken among our group.
“Then, when I started cutting hair, I realised I actually enjoyed it,” he grinned.
Jake said there was more to the Garage Barbershop than cutting hair. Friendships were made and possible career paths created.
“Charles was my biggest mentor, and we keep in touch today,” Jake said
“Also, I walked away with stronger friendships with some of my schoolmates. Everybody involved was welcoming and encouraging.
“The workshop taught me to get out there and try different things, even when I don’t think I can do them,” he said.
“I like to think I have become more approachable and outgoing, and my willingness to try has grown.”
Jake, a regular at Chalky’s Boxing Gym who likes gaming and spending time with his family, says the Garage Barbershop has helped him grow – in stature and confidence.
“Outside of the barbershop program, I go to school and Chalky’s gym. I cut hair, and now I also have a job,” he says proudly.
Jake’s advice to all kids out there, is to get involved with Garage Barbershop if the chance arises.
“If they get the opportunity to participate, they should jump on it,” Jake said.
“I was always very quiet and only interested in gaming, until I got my confidence up.
“Now I’m cutting people’s hair, interacting with them, and going to Chalky’s regularly,” he said.
Jake is available for community haircuts Saturday, December 13 and Saturday, December 20 between 10am and 12.30pm.
These are being offered free as part of the Garage Barbershop program supported by the NSW Premier’s Department and Graincorp.
Bookings are not required – first in, best dressed.
