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When is Black History Month? Every February, we celebrate Black History Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the contributions, history, and resilience of Black individuals and communities. More than just a reflection on the past, Black History Month 2025 is an opportunity to spotlight those making history today—especially in industries deeply rooted in culture and community, like barbering.
At Booksy, we are proud to support Black-owned businesses and highlight the incredible barbers who shape not just styles but lives. This week, we’re celebrating United Barbers Club founders Lonnie Horne and Timmel Pittman alongside professional barbers Brandi LaShay and Drip, who are each making their mark in the industry and building community through their craft.
Their stories reflect the power, influence, and deep-rooted history of Black barbershops as community hubs.
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Lonnie Horne and Timmel Pittman are the visionary founders of United Barbers Club (UBC), an organization dedicated to unifying and uplifting barbers. Their commitment to the craft goes beyond perfecting a fade—it’s about empowering the next generation of barbers, fostering business growth, and creating a space where mentorship thrives.
Timmel Pittman shares the unique role barbershops play in Black culture:
“Barbershops are the lifelines of the city, serving as more than just places for haircuts. They play a role in some of life’s biggest moments—weddings, job interviews, funerals, family photos, and more. In Black communities especially, barbershops are hubs for spreading the word and raising awareness.”
At World Class Faders, the shop founded by Lonnie Horne, the connection between clients and barbers runs deep. Lonnie recalls a moment that defined the power of his space:
“A client told one of our barbers during his haircut that he recently lost his wife. The man broke down in tears. We all put our clippers down, circled around him, and prayed. The barbershop is a place of healing, a place where men feel safe to express their pain and find strength in their community.”
Lonnie and Timmel believe in using barbering as a mentorship tool:
“I’ve learned there is an honor that comes with being a Black barber. My chair has turned into a ministry and mentoring opportunity, allowing me to help younger generations realize that, with or without a father present, they have no limitations on what they can do.”
Their mission at UBC is simple but powerful: to uplift, inspire, and build generational wealth through the art of barbering.
Brandi LaShay has carved out her own lane in a space often dominated by men. As a Black female barber, she is not only redefining the industry but also ensuring that her barbershop serves as a safe and welcoming space for the Black community.
Brandi explains why barbershops are more than just a place to get a fresh cut:
“Barbering and barbershops are deeply rooted in Black culture; they’re more than just places for a haircut—they are centers of community, where stories are shared, and real-life discussions take place. For Black people, barbershops are where we find support, affirmation, and a sense of belonging.”
For Brandi, making sure every client feels at home is essential:
“It’s where single moms can bring their kids and feel comfortable, knowing they’ll be treated with care and respect. It’s where young Black men come to talk about their goals and futures. A barbershop is a cultural institution.”
Brandi is deeply committed to giving back:
“Through barbering, I’ve been able to offer jobs, mentorship, education, and a sense of pride to others in my community. I’ve partnered with local shelters to offer free haircuts to women and children, and I mentor young barbers, showing them how to turn their craft into financial freedom.”
When asked what advice she’d give to young Black barbers, Brandi keeps it real:
“First, understand the value of your craft. Barbering it’s about elevating self-esteem and making an impact. Stay committed to continuous learning, and most importantly, stay authentic. Your artistry and authenticity are what will set you apart.”
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Drip, owner of Meleyean's Sports Barbershop in Edinburgh Drive Park, MN, sees the barbershop as more than a place for haircuts—it’s a sanctuary where men find mentorship, confidence, and connection.
Drip shares his perspective on the deeper role of barbershops in Black culture:
"The barbershop unconsciously fills in what we may be missing at home. Regardless of your age or background, you’re able to come to one space and find pieces of yourself in others you never knew you had—whether that’s a brother, father figure, business partner, mentor, or son. Then, of course, there’s a great haircut that boosts your esteem, readying you to take on the world."
Drip recalls a powerful moment of unity at his shop:
"When we did free haircuts for the community, it brought out the mayor, community leaders, and professional athletes like Jalen Suggs, Chet Holmgren, Naz Reid, and Karl Anthony Towns. They were signing shirts, arms, and even chests for the youth who admired them. We had a line of customers wrapped around the building and even gave out free sneakers. It was a true moment of community connection."
For Drip, one of the greatest joys of barbering is seeing young clients grow into their dreams:
"There’s nothing more magical than watching a kid go from a booster seat, talking about big dreams, to living them—whether that’s going to a D1 college, transitioning from street hustle to becoming a businessman or making it to the NBA or NFL. Being able to speak life into them as they grow is something I appreciate deeply."
Black History Month is more than a celebration—it’s a recognition of Black excellence, resilience, and contributions. Black-owned barbershops have long been places of empowerment, education, and cultural exchange, shaping both individuals and communities.
At Booksy, we are honored to support and celebrate Black barbers, who continue to inspire, mentor, and uplift those around them. Their legacy is proof that barbering is more than a profession—it’s a movement.
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Looking to Support Black-Owned Barbershops?
As we continue to celebrate Black History Month 2025, we encourage everyone to recognize the vital role Black barbershops play in our culture. Here’s to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and building the future.Stay tuned for more Black History Month features throughout February!#BlackHistoryMonth2025 #BlackOwnedBusiness #Barbering #BlackBarbershops #BooksyCommunity
