Media release

Joshua said his passion for barbering began at home, cutting friends’ and family’s hair in his spare time. After years working as a tradie, he decided to turn his hobby into a full-time career.

“Going to TAFE NSW full-time in 2017 was the best decision I ever made. I’d always had a passion for barbering and the teachers were so welcoming. I loved learning everything from scissor work through to talking to customers and doing consultations.”

Joshua now employs both apprentices and qualified barbers and says mentoring others has become one of the most rewarding parts of his business.

“We just had one apprentice finish through TAFE NSW and another starting next year. The Certificate III in Barbering has been a game-changer for people who want to specialise in short hair,” Joshua said.

“I get to see customers at every stage of life – someone coming in before their wedding, someone who’s just moved home after a big life change. Helping people feel confident no matter where they’re at is what drives me. It can be stressful running a business, but I love what I do, and I could see myself doing this for the rest of my life.”

 TAFE NSW Teacher of Hair and Barbering, Kate Collins, said Joshua’s success shows how vocational education can help students transform their passion into a rewarding career.

 “Joshua is a fantastic example of how TAFE NSW training equips students with the technical and people skills to succeed. Barbering is a growing industry, and seeing graduates like Joshua create local jobs and mentor apprentices shows the real-world impact of hands-on, industry-led training. Joshua has now also put his first apprentice through TAFE NSW, which is a real full-circle moment.”

Media contact: Emma Hughes, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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