SPEAK YOUR TRUTH

This issue didn’t start with a theme, but one has definitely developed as it’s come together. The phrase ‘speaking your truth’ might make you think of so-called snowflakes, but it’s what this industry has been doing for years. Here at Modern Barber we strive to celebrate your honesty, integrity and diverse opinions.

And our cover star Myles Lewis is definitely one for saying it like it is! From battles with mental health to the struggles of building a business in a pandemic, the barber gets real about his journey to becoming a shop owner. Elsewhere, industry newcomer PV has set up a concept called CutPark where independent shops with separate branding exist under one roof (kind of like the BOXPARK of barbershops!). He comments that self-employed barbers are all too often treated like employees – let me know what you think of the interview on p55 (DM us @ modernbarbermag on Instagram). Alongside PV we profile Keri Blue, a gender non-conforming barber on p62 who shares their view that barbershops should be a welcome place for anyone, of any gender, that wants a barbershop cut. After all, they state: ‘hair has no gender’.

Of course, this issue wouldn’t be complete without marking Allan Stone’s passing in January this year. Our thoughts are with Allan’s family and there is a Stoney-shaped hole in the industry now. It was a pleasure to get to know his family, colleagues and peers as they put together a stunning memorial to the South Shields’ legend. If you’ve not seen the tribute video created to mark what would have been Allan’s 47th birthday, head to our IGTV channel.

Looking ahead to the summer we are so excited to be holding the Modern Barber Awards and the inaugural BARBERFEST in Brighton on Sunday 4 and Monday 5 July. It’s set to be two days of education, networking and celebrating our industry. Plus, there’s a rather tempting combined ticket price of £45 currently on offer… (turn to p9 for more details of what’s on).

At the time of writing barbershops in Wales are open, Scotland’s are due to re-open from 5 April, England’s are set to re-open on 12 April and Northern Ireland are awaiting a date. Wherever you are in the reopening phase, wishing you all the best of luck.