Jakarta, November 4, 2024 – Yayasan Inspirasi Indonesia Membangun (YIIM), together with PT Insight Investments Management (Insight IM), conducted a community empowerment initiative through a comprehensive five-day Barberman Training held from October 28 to November 1, 2024. The training engaged 10 participants from varied backgrounds, including individuals affected by layoffs (PHK), informal laborers, online motorcycle taxi drivers, and persons with disabilities (deaf community members).

The training sessions were instructed by Syaifulloh, an alumnus of YIIM’s 2019 Barber Training cohort. Applying the vocational foundations obtained at YIIM, Syaifulloh has successfully established his own independent barbershop, Barber Kampoeng, situated in the Penggilingan area of Cakung, East Jakarta.

On the opening day, the program commenced with welcoming remarks from Dian Ayu Rahmawati, Program Manager at YIIM. She stated, “This training embodies the firm commitment of YIIM and Insight IM to bolster economic independence, specifically targeting vulnerable socioeconomic groups. We encourage all participants to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to the learning process and seize this invaluable opportunity.” Following the inaugural ceremony, participants undertook a pre-test to gauge baseline competence and attended introductory sessions on barbering tools and their distinct technical applications.

During the second and third days, participants immersed themselves in fundamental haircutting methods and scissor-handling techniques. They immediately applied their theoretical knowledge through direct haircutting practice under the close tutelage of the instructor. This hands-on experience proved vital in refining the dexterity, precision, and confidence required to handle professional grooming instruments.

On the fourth day, the curriculum advanced to hair detailing, tapering, and finishing techniques. While several trainees initially encountered challenges in choosing the proper clipper guard sizes for seamless fading, the instructor’s tailored coaching helped them rapidly adapt and master clipper guard utilization with precision.

On the concluding fifth day, participants explored professional barber ethics and client service excellence. Each trainee was entrusted with styling a live model from start to finish, demonstrating strict adherence to professional standards and hygiene. The event culminated in a symbolic closing ceremony officiated by Riccana Rosita, Treasurer of YIIM. In her address, she noted: “Our sincere gratitude goes to every participant in this barber training cohort. We hope the expertise gained here will continue to be honed and will not cease here. May you follow in the footsteps of Mr. Syaifulloh, who began as a YIIM trainee and has evolved into a self-reliant entrepreneur and vocational instructor.”

Throughout the five-day intensive training, participants exhibited remarkable dedication, high enthusiasm, and consistency. Their strong drive to learn and inquisitive mindset enabled them to swiftly assimilate both theoretical principles and practical styling competencies.

Sharing his impressions, participant Budi Saputra stated: “Thank you to YIIM for facilitating this barber training. I used to believe cutting hair was effortless, but upon learning here, I realized it takes dedicated practice and patient repetition to master. My aspiration is to work within the barbering sector and eventually open my own independent barbershop.”

This vocational program aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. The program demonstrates the steadfast commitment of YIIM and Insight IM to deploying corporate social funds toward tangible, uplifting socioeconomic transformations.

YIIM is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering communities from all walks of life, established by passionate social and humanitarian practitioners. To accomplish this mission, YIIM warmly welcomes strategic partnerships and collaborations with various stakeholders to expand beneficial opportunities for beneficiaries in need.

Salam Inspirasi!