A Gugulethu barber had his work cut out for him when he gave pupils at a local high school an “exam makeover”.
There were broad smiles at Intshukumo Senior Secondary School where dozens of boys and girls received haircuts from Legends Barbershop.
The makeover was done in between exam papers on Friday, with pupils from different grades participating.
School Principal Gavin Smith says the initiative came at the right time as the learners tend to be stressed out and lack inspiration during the exam period.
“The Legends came and did an amazing job for the learners,” says the palie.
“You could see the mood change and they were encouraged by the wise words shared by the staff.
“Their spirits were uplifted and everyone was grateful.
"There were 15 barbers and learners took turns as they came out of their exam rooms.
"We always appreciate support from our community, education isn’t just about the curriculum or between a teacher and a learner, everyone has a role to play and the Legends just played their part. Our learners loved it.”
SHORTCUT TO SUCCESS: Legends Barber at Ntshukumo High in Gugulethu on Friday. Video supplied
He says most of their learners come from underprivileged communities so this was the perfect opportunity for them to choose a lekker style without worrying about the cost.
“About 30 learners got haircuts. Although the barbers came prepared, we only have some learners at school due to exams.
“It was truly amazing, thank you Legends for choosing us.”
Legends Barbershop regional manager Nkululeko Komna says they launched the Gugulethu branch in 2011, and each of their 60 stores nationwide adopts less fortunate schools, orphanages, and old age homes to every second month give them a “legendary haircut”.
“Sometimes we give food parcels and blankets as well,” he says.
Nkululeko says this was just one way of the company giving back to a community that supported them.
“The learners were thrilled, the smiles on their faces were just amazing to see, some were even dancing after their haircuts.
“We have left the kids with a simple message – that they must never allow their circumstances to determine their future.”
He adds: “We are what we are because of the community. Umntu ngumntu ngabantu.”