 |
Kenneth and Toni Williams of Chicago are a cosmetically astute
couple who not only share a home and family, they co-own and operate
the Silk n Classy Barber College and two barbershops bearing the same
name. The Williamses frequently participate in a variety of community
and social causes ranging from free haircuts for kids returning to
school, to speaking engagements at charitable events to highlight local
heroes. The pair discussed their passion for their profession and their
commitment to community with ro recently.
–roz edward
Why did you establish your own training institution?
Kenneth:
“We were able to establish the barber college after we opened our
second location. We opened the barber college after hiring 10 young men
who completed barber school, but when they went to take the state
board, 6 of the 10 failed the test. … The schools were basically just
using students to cut hair for them, but not preparing them adequately
to practice the profession. … Here, we insist on a professional
attitude and appearance, academic achievement and attendance. We’ve
given out scholarships and trained well over 200 barbers so far.”
How do you give back to the surrounding community?
Kenneth:
“We give away haircuts 5–10 times a year to homeless men during the
men’s health week and to children returning to school. We require our
barbers and students to sign a contract agreeing to participate in
volunteer activities. In October, we will work with Gillette to provide
razor shaves on-site to 250 men.”
What do you recommend aspiring barbers do to get in the business?
Toni:
“… Be passionate about [the work]. … Coming out of school you can start
off around $30,000 to $35,000 a year. But with every passing year, your
skill level builds and your earnings increase. Just don’t get into it
for the money only.”
