A FUSION OF CULTURES & EXCELLENCE

By Louise May

Meet Naser, the creative force behind Western Australia’s Naser Haircuts. Naser’s journey began unexpectedly in an aged care centre, where he discovered his passion for giving haircuts, and bringing joy to others.

Renowned for his intricate designs and meticulous attention to detail, Naser has garnered prestigious awards like AHIA 2023 Men’s Hair Specialist and WA/NT Hairdresser of the Year. 2023 Behind the Chair 2 x finalist in the men’s category - USA and 2023 LIVE Finalist Male Hairdresser of the Year - SPAIN

As an ambassador for Andis Clippers, he shares his skills generously, helping others to perfect their craft. His commitment to blending cultures and making people look and feel amazing defines the essence of Naser Haircuts.

Hair Biz Editor Louise May chats with Naser...

What inspired you to pursue a career in hair and how did it start?

I started in an aged care centre while working as a nurse. I would cut the men’s hair because they could not get out to have this done, seeing the need for help in the elderly community and how it made them feel good about themselves.

What sets Naser Haircuts apart from other salons in your area?

My approach to men’s grooming goes all the way from how you present yourself, to the look of the salon. I have tried to bring my Middle Eastern culture and blend it with Western culture. I think that bringing in my free-hand designs for both men and women is what sets me apart from the conventional men’s barbershop. As a Middle Eastern man, beards and facial hair have always been a big part of my upbringing and focusing on this in the salon has also been a distinct signature of Naser Haircuts.

Congratulations on being awarded the AHIA 2023 Men’s Hair Specialist and WA/NT Hairdresser of the Year. How do you feel these accolades have impacted your career?

Winning these awards made me feel that I have achieved a huge goal, I am always striving to build on the brand. It has elevated the awareness of my work in Perth in the men’s barbering world, as well as opened up some platforms overseas. Last year I was invited to Dubai to be a guest at a hair and beauty show. I was also recognised with a certificate in my home country, Iraq, for my achievements in Australia.

You’ve worked in various countries like Jordan, America, Malaysia, UAE and Australia. How have these diverse experiences shaped your approach to hairdressing?

The experience of different styles relative to the country and being able to adapt to the culture of the place I am in, has been most interesting and educational. These experiences have allowed me to learn many different techniques which I have used in my shop.

As an ambassador for Andis Clippers, what does this partnership mean to you? What do you love about and is and what are your favourite tools to use and why?

Being an Ambassador for Andis is important to me because it was a goal of mine for a while. They are an important company in our industry, a great platform to show my work and also to network within my industry, meeting other ambassadors and gaining more knowledge. You never stop learning. My favourite tool is their gold master clipper. I feel that the weight of this tool allows me to have better control over my haircuts. I can use this for cutting and designs.

Beyond providing exceptional haircuts, you’re also dedicated to barbering education and volunteering your skills. Why is this aspect of giving back important to you? Volunteering goes back to why I started, I believe that giving back allows for personal and learning growth. I find it rewarding to teach because I did not have someone that was willing to teach me when I first started. I am not afraid to share my skills and knowledge

What advice would you give to aspiring hairdressers or barbers who are just starting their journey in the industry?

To be open to different techniques and methods. I believe that barbers from other countries have new and diverse ideas; so always be willing to learn. Don’t be afraid to dream big and to set big goals, we all start somewhere.

Looking ahead, what are your future goals or aspirations for Naser Haircuts? And what is on the agenda for you over the next 12 months?

Future goals: entering more competitions, and more international exposure. IHA is a big goal for me and as far as business goals: more awareness of the shop and expanding to other locations.

@naser_haircuts

@andisclippers