Barbering isn’t just about fades, it’s about identity, community, and the power of self-expression. In this exclusive column, we hear from Zanear Ali, the first Kurdish barber to join the Wahl Artistic Team. From humble beginnings in a local Kurdish barbershop to becoming a finalist for Wahl British Barber of the Year, his journey is one of relentless graft, breaking industry stereotypes, and proudly representing a community often overlooked in the wider barbering industry. Here’s how he’s redefining success.
"For me, barbering is more than just a job - it’s a way to express myself. I’ve always been into fashion and style, and that’s exactly how I approach every cut. It’s not just about shaping hair; it’s about creating a look that makes someone feel and look fantastic. Whether it’s a clean fade, a sharp line, or the perfect beard, every detail counts. I want every client to walk out of my chair feeling confident and ready to turn heads. That’s the energy I bring to every cut.
That mindset has opened so many doors for me. I became the first Kurdish barber to work with Wahl, which still blows my mind. I started as a brand ambassador - and that felt huge. But I wasn’t just there to hold the title, I wanted to prove I deserved it. There’s a quote I live by: “The harder I work, the luckier I get.” And honestly, it’s true. Everywhere I’ve worked, I’ve told myself to go twice as hard as anyone else. I was a finalist for Wahl British Barber of the Year and didn’t win, but it pushed me even more. I kept grafting, became an ambassador, and just seven months later I made it onto the Wahl Artistic Team. Around the same time, I also became a Matakki Scissor Ambassador. None of it was handed to me, I earned every bit of it, with one goal in mind: to represent my people in the best way I can.
People don’t always see the story before the glory. They don’t see the late nights, the setbacks, the self-doubt. But that’s where the real work happens.
The truth is, I’m not where I want to be. Not even close. I’ve got huge goals ahead, and the grind is far from over. But when I look at how far I’ve come, I feel proud. Proud of the journey, proud of the doors I’ve opened, and proud to represent my Kurdish barbering community every step of the way.
I’m aware of the stereotypes. People often say Kurdish barbers don’t focus on detail, don’t bring professionalism to the craft. That we’re just about speed and cheap cuts. Let me be clear: those are lazy misconceptions. Yes, some cut corners but that’s true in any community. That small percentage doesn’t define us.
The reality? I’ve seen Kurdish barbers doing elite work. Razor-sharp fades, intricate detailing, real artistry. We take immense pride in what we do. But we’ve often been overlooked. We haven’t always had the chance to showcase our skills on a bigger stage. I’m here to change that. I’m here to represent us in the right way, to push boundaries and to show the industry that Kurdish barbers are a force to be reckoned with.
I know I’m just one individual and there’s only so much one person can do. But everything starts small. Step by step, cut by cut, I believe things will shift. Slowly but surely.
To every young Kurdish barber, or anyone from a community that’s been overlooked, remember this: you can be the first. You can stand out without losing who you are. Don’t let anyone dictate your path. Keep showing up, keep working harder, and keep elevating the craft. Let your work speak for itself.
“Focus on you until the focus is on you.”"
