On 29th August, Spark2Life, in partnership with Project Zero, hosted the first Barber Shop Talks event at World Cutz in Walthamstow. The session created a safe, culturally familiar space for Black men to come together and talk openly about life, challenges, and mental health and wellbeing.
What unfolded was powerful. The room was filled with moments of laughter, honesty, wisdom, and at times frustration. Men from across generations, from teenagers through to those in their 60s, spoke freely and without fear of judgement. For many, it was a rare opportunity to share openly in a supportive environment where their voices and experiences were truly valued.
The event highlighted the importance of dialogue and the need for spaces that reflect the culture and lived experiences of those attending. When Black men are given the opportunity to gather in familiar settings, meaningful conversations can happen and healing can begin.
Co-facilitator David Ilori reflected:
“It was an excellent day. The insights, stories, and reflections gathered will continue to shape how we support Black men not just in formal services, but in the everyday spaces where they already gather. So let’s continue to talk, and heal.”
We look forward to building on this success and creating more spaces like Barber Shop Talks, where community and conversation come together to inspire lasting change.
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