As we celebrate Pride Month, we want to shine a light on Kenshy, an exceptional barber who has created a safe space for the queer community right in the heart of Brooklyn, New York. With a mobile shop, Kenshy has attracted a loyal group of clients who rave about her skills and amassed a growing number of followers on social media. This remarkable growth proves that sometimes, just being visible can make a world of difference in fostering a sense of community, belonging, and pride.
We recently caught up with Kenshy over a Zoom call to discuss her shop, business, and mission as she gears up for the festivities of Pride Month. Here's a glimpse into our inspiring conversation:
Can you start by introducing yourself, where are you from, and how you started in the hair/barbering industry?
I’m from Florida and now live in New York and Brooklyn. I work mobile 4 days a week and in a friend’s shop for colors and washing services.
How did you get started doing what you’re doing today?
Market my barber shop and reach people who are uncomfortable in traditional shops. I know how to do this, but I did not expect it to get this big. The support from the community is amazing and overwhelming. That tells me that there is a need. The queer community and brown folks who were often perceived as different when they walk into a shop and are immediately treated differently. They didn’t feel safe there but they feel safe in my shop.
Beyond making a living, what do you hope your shop on wheels can do or bring about?
I hope that it allows me to jump into different spaces and grow the business. I thought I wanted a standing shop down the line but I hope to grow the truck. I’d like to add a sink and one other seat. I want to teach other people to cut to make more safe spaces, do more events, and create more opportunities.
How do you prioritize inclusivity and representation in your work as a beauty professional?
Just being there and being black and queer-identifying. They already feel at ease in my shop. It’s a fun and chill vibe and they don’t worry about masking.
It’s typical that barbershops are very male and heteronormative spaces. So just being in that kind of environment, hearing the conversations about things that make you feel uncomfortable is an inviting and awkward experience for so many in my community. Even the choice of music can be uninviting, for example, it can be myogenic, giving that ‘macho energy.’
[For color services] There are two other people I know to refer them to that are also safe spaces.
What does pride month mean to you?
New York is free and provides the opportunity to run into more people like you. You feel safe and you can create your community. It’s a celebration of being who you are. Growing up in Florida was isolating. Completely different. Even when you think about the laws and politicians are doing… for example, you’re not allowed to talk about being queer. It’s a totally different culture.
If you could make a change to pride month, or what happens in Pride month, what would it be and why?
The community wants to always be seen and invested in, not just in the 30 days of Pride month. Especially, now that laws are being made and rights are taken away. Sometimes we are only seen and invested in queer businesses and supported during June and I’d love that to extend all year.
As a barbershop operating on wheels, what is one thing about this career that has totally surprised you, whether good or bad?
The overwhelming support of the community. I’ve become the go-to for people. I’ve created a whole niche and people are loving it. Even when the weather is rough, people make the trip to see me happen.
How do you use your platform as a beauty professional to empower and uplift LGBTQ+ voices and experiences?
Being visible, just being here, has created a little explosion of growth, and I gain 3-4 new clients week by week. It varies, but I’m growing and am able to provide services and a safe space for LGBTQIA+ people.
When you’re in a traditional brick-and-mortar shop, you’re surrounded by other barbers and stylists. What is the day-to-day community like as a mobile shop?
The main difference is a lot more to set up. When you walk into a shop you have electricity and have tools laying out. Me, I have to take precautions so somebody doesn’t break in. I also have a generator for electricity that I charge every week. And depending on where you are you can’t control the environment. If you park by a school it’s loud, it can get loud. Sometimes the weather can be extreme
You uploaded your first Instagram photo 93 weeks ago at the time of this interview. If you could go back in time and tell yourself ONE thing from future Kenshy who is sitting with us today, what would it be?
Learn to ask for help. It’s something I struggle with. I could have cut projects in half if I asked for help. The LGBTQ+ shop I worked at where I gained a lot of clients and met many cool people who would have helped if I just asked. I don’t blame anyone but myself. Work smarter, not harder.
How are you celebrating Pride this year? Any special plans or goals?
Community events and supporting clients in things that they have going on. Hopefully pulling up and cutting lots of hair.
What message do you have for the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month, and how do you hope to inspire others through your work in the beauty industry?
It’s okay to lean on each other and support. Continue to do that. I’m here because of the community. They inspire me. I hope others see this and want to think outside the box about business.
In Kenshy's remarkable journey as a barber, she has gone above and beyond to create safe spaces for the queer community through her mobile shop. Witnessing the overwhelming support and explosive growth Kenshy has experienced, it becomes evident that visibility plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community, belonging, and pride. By prioritizing inclusivity and representation, Kenshy not only inspires others within the beauty industry but also serves as a powerful example of the positive impact one individual can make.
Our recent conversation with Kenshy on Booksy left us feeling deeply grateful for the opportunity to delve into her story. It was a privilege to witness firsthand the passion and dedication with which she has crafted a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community. The authenticity and warmth she exudes truly embody the spirit of Pride Month, reminding us of the importance of embracing diversity and creating spaces where everyone can feel seen and valued.
As we celebrate Pride Month, her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of visibility and the significant role that safe spaces play in empowering the LGBTQ+ community. We are incredibly grateful to Kenshy for sharing her insights and experiences, and we hope that her story continues to inspire others to embrace inclusivity, challenge norms, and foster a sense of unity and acceptance within their own communities.
