Croydon, UK - In the heart of Croydon, Pokz Hair Studios is redefining the traditional barbershop experience by intertwining expert hair replacement with a sanctuary for mental well-being for Black men.
Founded by Opoku Kunadu-Yiadom in 2023, Pokz Hair Studios is more than just a place for quality hair pieces for men of colour. It's a haven where clients find solace, understanding, and a listening ear. Opoku, a certified barber from the London School of Barbering with additional qualifications in Hair Replacement Systems, transitioned from a career as a quantity surveyor to pursue his passion for barbering during the lockdown. His unique approach has seen the studio flourish, expanding from an initial 10 clients to serving dozens regularly, with revenues growing from £40,000 to over £100,000 annually.
"It's not just about the haircut," said Opoku. "It's about creating a space where men feel safe to open up about their struggles, be it depression, job loss, or personal challenges. The barber-client relationship is powerful; sometimes, it's the only place where men feel they can truly be themselves."
This approach is particularly significant given the mental health challenges faced by Black men in the UK. Statistics reveal that Black men are 17 times more likely than white men to be diagnosed with a serious mental health illness and are more frequently subjected to mental health interventions . Yet, they are less likely to access mental health services, often due to stigma and systemic barriers.
Opoku said: "One of my regular clients stopped coming in. Concerned, I reached out and discovered he was battling depression after losing his job and facing personal issues. I invited him for a free haircut. That simple act helped restore his confidence, and he soon secured a new job. It's moments like these that underscore the importance of what we do."
With everything he does, Opuku is focused on supporting and advocating about men's mental health and parental alienation, emphasizing that "hair is just the beginning - it's about holistic well-being."
Media Contact
Company Name: Pokz Hair Studios
Contact Person: Opoku Kunadu-Yiadom
Email: Send Email
Country: United Kingdom
Website: http://www.pokzhairstudios.co.uk