As youth unemployment in Toronto rises, a barbershop in Scarborough, Conrad's Barber Shop and Hairstyling, collaborated with the Scarborough Environmental Association to host an event aimed at supporting job-seekers in the east end of the city. This event took place during Black History Month, where barbers provided free haircuts to job-seekers, followed by professional portrait sessions with a photographer.
Conrad Marshall, who has been a part of Conrad's Barber Shop since 1987, expressed gratitude for the community's support over the decades. "What I like the most is dealing with the people, the camaraderie with the people—some of my best friends I’ve met at the barbershop," he said, highlighting the importance of community connections for the longevity of the business.
Brandon Mwendo, a photographer and videographer based in Scarborough, seized this opportunity to give back. Having lived in the area but never visited Conrad's before, he remarked, "I mean if I tried to think of how many places are doing this right now, making it easy, I can’t think of one." Mwendo emphasized the barrier many people face regarding access to professional photography, stating that such portraits could significantly improve an individual's online presence and self-esteem.
One of the attendees, Wayne Virgo, expressed the challenges he's faced in the current job market, describing it as "pretty brutal." He was actively searching for human resources or administration roles and appreciated the opportunity to network. After receiving a fresh haircut and professional photos, he felt more confident in his job hunt. "I really like them, like, fresh, crisp, professional, amazing," he noted about the photographs.
Krissan Veerasingam, a director with the Scarborough Environmental Association, stressed that their organization aims to improve social environments within the community. He pointed out that barbershops play a crucial role in providing job opportunities for youth. Notably, Conrad's is the first Black-owned barbershop in Scarborough, serving the community for over 50 years. Veerasingam emphasized that this event aimed to highlight the resilience of the Black community, particularly in overcoming systemic challenges such as racism and employment discrimination. He remarked, "In Toronto, youth unemployment is at 20 percent, and if it’s 20 percent in Toronto, it’s much worse in Scarborough." Veerasingam called for government intervention to create more job opportunities for youth in the area.
Encouraging Youth in the Barbering Trade
Marshall's involvement also focused on promoting the barbering industry among the youth. He aims to inspire young Black individuals that successful businesses can thrive, as evidenced by Conrad's tenure. He stated, "What we want to do is to set an example for the young people growing up." To further this mission, they are developing an educational and mentorship program to guide young people in the barbering trade.
Michelle Herbert, who is helping to develop this program, emphasized the importance of providing youths with a solid foundation. "We want to get them certified, we want to make sure they’re following health and safety protocol," she said. The program includes aspects of business management, accounting, and marketing, with classes conducted in the barbershop during lunch breaks to accommodate work schedules.
Herbert also highlighted the lucrative prospects within the barbering industry, noting that the global hairstyling market is a $13 billion business. She encouraged youths to explore various career paths within barbering, including designing tools and innovative products. "There’s a new form of clippers coming out now," she explained, showcasing the evolving nature of the barbering profession and the need for fresh ideas from the younger generation.
For those interested in pursuing a career in barbering or seeking more information about the offered programs, Marshall encouraged individuals to contact Conrad's Barber Shop directly at 416-428-5025.
