James Talbot, founder of HARE – with barbershops in Woodstock, Eynsham and Witney – has already raised £15k for local charities, but has now extended his support to Mexico, where he has been striving to make an impact through the craft of barbering.
While in Tulum, Mexico, James has been working closely with Feed Tulum, an initiative supporting the local community – particularly the children at the Tulum Orphanage.
Since his arrival, James has been welcomed with open arms. At the high-security orphanage hidden deep in the jungle, James set up a makeshift barbershop under armed guard. “The place was barren, cramped, in the middle of nowhere – but the kids were well cared for,” he recalls. These children are kept in hiding for their safety, as many are at risk of abduction. “They can’t be photographed in case their parents, or worse, find out where they are. It’s heavy.”
Still, James wanted to give them something to smile about. “I gave them edgy mullets and mohawks –proper attitude cuts! They were buzzing, showing them off to each other. It was sick to see them feel like little rockstars for a moment.” Additionally, James has been sharing his passion for Muay Thai with the children, offering engaging demonstrations that have added a fun and energetic element to their days.
Beyond the orphanage, James has extended his generosity further by offering free haircuts to homeless and underprivileged men in the area. His work is not only providing dignity and confidence through grooming but also bringing a sense of community to those in need. “These guys don’t get many chances to feel fresh. A decent cut, a bit of attention, it shifts their whole energy. They go from invisible to seen.”
“In the UK there’s so much red tape that opportunities like this just wouldn’t happen. In Mexico, you can just get to work,” James adds. “For us, barbering isn’t just about hair, it’s about connection. You realise a haircut is more than just looking good. It’s about self-respect and feeling human.”
From Oxford to Tulum, HARE is more than just a brand. Follow the journey on their blog or Instagram.
