Source: Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
When Leah Friis picked her career, she knew barbering wouldn’t fade away.
The Toi Ohomai barbering tutor is passionate about her craft and says the industry in New Zealand is booming, which huge demand for barbers and barbershops.
“There’re so many gaps in the market and we are seeing a massive increase in the number of guys who want to pamper themselves and take grooming seriously.”
The past few years has seen the demand for barbers soar, with new styles and techniques the men’s grooming industry has flourished.
“Barbershops aren’t what they used to be,” Leah says.
“They have evolved over the years and the whole industry had been very trendy. Men want the same quality experiences that women get when they go to a salon. They want the whole pamper experience.”
Toi Ohomai is now offering a Level 4 barbering course, which is the highest level of barbering qualification available.
“It opens up so many more opportunities and make you more employable,” Leah says.
“You will also learn about running your own barbershop.”
Leah has been teaching at Toi Ohomai since last year, but had worked in the hairdressing and barbering industry since 2011.
“I originally wanted to get into barbering but there were no courses available, so I studied hairdressing.”
She later moved into barbering but as well as cutting hair, she knew she wanted to teach and share her skills.
“Teaching was just something I always wanted to do and now I can share my skills and experience with the next generation of barbers.
“Being a barber is great. It’s not over-complicated and barbershops often have a very relaxed vibe. People know what they want and are always open to suggestions.”
The Level 4 barbering course at Toi Ohomai is taught by industry experts in our on campus professional barber shop. It is a one-year course and is hands-on and practical.
“You’ll learn all the detailed knowledge and skills to be able to work in the ever-growing barbering industry. The course combines a focus on elements of traditional and modern fashion styling with an understanding of the history and influences of this trade.”
From classic modern barbering techniques, to small hair detail, scissor skills, clipper and fade work including traditional wet shaves – this course covers them all.
“You’ll also learn the professional ethics and standards of this industry along with the health and safety requirements, front-of-house operations and how to market your services to attract and retain a regular clientele.”
Additionally, Toi Ohomai is hosting Trilogy Barber Education at its Windermere Campus this week.
Three of New Zealand’s top barbers, Vea Fonua, Peleti Oli, and Jabez Makawe, will be on site to deliver a demonstration and workshop, showing some of the top techniques and hottest trends.
The Trilogy Barber Education workshop is on Thursday, 11 February. Bookings are essential and can be made here.
