Monika Amunyela

Joe Fades Cut in Windhoek is reshaping lives by turning hair clippers into tools of empowerment for unemployed youth.

The growing business launched a barbering training programme designed to equip young people with skills, industry knowledge, and a head start toward self-employment. Youth unemployment remains a challenge in Namibia, and the initiative provides real life empowerment to ensure youth can stay motivated.

According to founder and lead barber Joel Mwatilefu, the programme is already making an impact. “The initiative currently has five trainees, and is being implemented in partnership with 4×4 Initiative, which is a mentorship-focused programme empowering boys and men through education,” he said. 

The collaboration between the two entities strengthens the programme’s impact and reach. 

“Together, we are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for young people, enabling them to build sustainable careers and contribute positively to the economy,” she said.

Participants receive both theoretical instruction and hands-on experience from skilled professionals with extensive industry experience. The training not only focuses on cutting hair, but it also incorporates customer service and basic business management to prepare trainees for the industry and long-term success.

Mwatilefu added that the initiative is also about raising the industry’s standards. “The program reflects a shared vision of empowering youth while simultaneously elevating standards within the grooming sector. By producing well-trained and qualified barbers, we are helping to professionalise the industry and ensure that customers receive high-quality services,” he said.

Kinder Antonio, one of the trainees, says it is a turning point for him. 

“I am taking the opportunity seriously to acquire the skills that I can use to benefit myself. 

I am currently unemployed, and being a barber is a business where one can become self-employed and make a living,” said Antonio.

Mwatilefu also adds that he believes that skills development is the key to unlocking
potential. 

“By training young people, we are not only changing lives, but also shaping the future of the grooming industry,” he concluded.

-newsroom@nepc.com.na