The Modern Barber Community Hero Award recognises barbers and barbershops that go above and beyond to make a difference in their communities - we look at what it takes to win and why you should enter.
So many barbershops are incredibly proactive within their local communities in a variety of ways, often providing a light in the darkness during difficult times. Our winners have included Keri Blue who was recognised for their work raising awareness of trans rights and launching the Human First educational platform and Ken Hermes who was awarded Community Hero in 2022 after providing vital mental health support to his customers. Our 2024 winner, OS Lifestyle, were awarded for their efforts in sustainability and making a positive impact in the barbering industry and beyond however this wasn't their first time finalising - co-owner Joe Steven shared: "It had become a bit of a running joke between us, because we’ve been in the finals for Community Hero for like five years in a row. I’m so glad we finally won it!"
Why Enter?
Whether you’re someone who dedicates time to volunteer work, creates local initiatives, or makes a positive impact through your career, entering the Modern Barber Community Hero Award can bring its rewards.
For Keri it meant raising awareness for their commuity: "Hopefully it’s going to mean that more trans people are seen, more non-binary people are seen and just make people feel their true, unique self and their authentic self. If I can pave a way and be a trailblazer for other people to join the industry, then I will do what it takes every single day to keep doing it. So, it literally means the world to me.” Stories of resilience, kindness, and commitment can inspire others to get involved in meaningful work or find ways to give back, and importantly others see that change is possible and that they too can make an impact. You never know - your story could motivate a whole community!
Ken saw the benefits of building his network through entering. Entering awards often opens doors to new connections which can lead to partnerships, mentorship, and collaborations that can help expand the impact of your work. Discussing his win, Ken said: “To win the Community Hero Award is beyond amazing. The finalists were all unreal and I think the real winners are the communities we serve. It’s so important to me to incorporate mental health in all aspects of my work, and to have the work I do in the shops and at universities recognised, is so humbling.”
Top Tips
To stand a chance of taking top honours or even a shortlisted place, you need to show the judges how your barbershop has genuinely gone above and beyond what is expected of a local business, supporting clients and the wider community.
Have you and your team worked solidly throughout the year to raise money for local causes? What have you and your team done to support the physical and mental wellbeing of clients? Have you made major changes to the way you run your business that have improved the environment for everyone?
Whatever heroic actions you and your business have taken, you need to shout about it. This is not the time to be shy about your good deeds. The judges want to see how you and your team have made a real difference and celebrate your achievements.
Looking for more tips on entering awards? Check out our top tips here before you start your entry. The entry deadline for the Modern Barber Awards 2025 is 5pm Friday 21st February 2025.
