Tahir

I come from a background shaped by dysfunction, incarceration, and hard truths. After being incarcerated at 18, I was forced to confront my pain and take responsibility for my actions. Over time, I learned that unexamined pain doesn’t disappear—it gets passed on. I made a conscious choice to break that cycle by addressing root causes rather than reacting to symptoms, and that decision continues to guide how I live and work today.

I entered barbering in an unconventional way, starting as a braider focused on tapers and beard trims. A simple exchange with another barber—trading braiding knowledge for cutting skills—marked the beginning of my professional career. From the start, I became deeply committed to learning, believing there is no limit to useful knowledge. While technical skills can be taught, true mastery comes from developing the mental discipline to recognize patterns, anticipate outcomes, and continually refine one’s craft.

There wasn’t a single defining moment that made me love barbering—it’s the consistent moments when clients feel heard, valued, and restored after a poor experience elsewhere that continue to affirm my purpose. Barbering has also been a grounding force during difficult times, offering clarity, focus, and a sense of peace when life felt chaotic. The chair became a place where I could quiet the noise, connect meaningfully, and take pride in providing care through precision and intention.

I believe growth in this industry requires humility and self-assessment. Progress doesn’t come from criticism alone, but from a willingness to evaluate your own work honestly and set new goals continuously. My journey has given me perspective—not something to glorify, but something to learn from—and that perspective shapes the way I show up today.

Some of the most meaningful relationships in my life were built through barbering, including my connection to the R&R Head Labs community. Shared experiences of incarceration created bonds rooted in trust, accountability, and respect. At R&R, I found not just opportunity, but belonging.

For me, creating a welcoming environment begins with gratitude and humility. Clients don’t exist for barbers—we exist for them. My goal is to be a steady, nearly invisible presence: someone who allows clients to feel safe, heard, and cared for without demanding attention. Barbering, at its best, is quiet service. It’s not about ego—it’s about presence, precision, and respect.