Sakaria Mateus, also known as ‘Songo the Barber’, says a haircut is something that should be enjoyed and that there is real art behind it.
Mateus (23) became a barber in 2017 when he was in high school and after he failed grade 12, he went to rent a chair from a barbershop in Oshakati.
In 2020, he opened his barbershop called the Famous Barber, located at the Oneshila in Oshakati where he operates daily.
Mateus told Youth Corner that being a barber is something he is passionate about because he never disappoints his clients.
He added that he receives many clients every day and cuts approximately 22 people’s hair per day.
“When I arrive, there are already people queuing up in front of the barbershop,” he said smiling.
Mateus said cutting hair is a trade like no other; “Some people see it as a haircut, but I view it as an art form. It requires someone creative and committed to providing customer service to people.”
He is also creating jobs for his fellow youths, as he employs two men at the Famous Barbershop as barbers, and is looking forward to employing an extra two people once the premises get extended.
“If you’ve never had your hair cut by a master barber, you don’t know what you are missing,” Mateus said.
One thing to expect when entering his barbershop is a variety of music.
Mateus further stressed that there are many different ways of making money and this can simply be done when talent is being used wisely.
“To the grade 12 failures; never be ashamed of your hustle. Use your talent to generate income. Going to a university doesn’t always make someone successful,” he advised.
Mateus is available on his Facebook page which is Sakaria Songo. – fhamalwa@nepc.com.na