The Motherlode Fall 2024

Barbershops as Community Cornerstones Barbering as a Trade &

by Stacey Coles

College isn’t for everyone. We’ve heard this phrase for years. Today, social media allows us to regularly see people pursue entrepreneurship and creative trades that don’t require a traditional college education. One of those trades is barbering. With a steady hand and good marketing skills, barbering can prove to be a lucrative career or part- time gig for women and men alike. BENEFITS Barbering offers creative freedom, community, and longevity. The barbershop has been a cornerstone in many cultures and communities going as far back as 5000 B.C. Particularly in the United States, barbershops became safe social havens for men beginning in the 19th century. Proving this remains true, NBA star LeBron James notably co-hosts and produces the Emmy-nominated HBO series, “The Shop: Uninterrupted.” During the show, the Los Angeles Laker gathers with other notable men and women for a range of lighthearted and deep conversations amid line-ups. Imagine the delight of the barbers who get to be a part of that experience!

36 | THE MOTHERLODE

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