James Harrison – Barbering Apprentice
In 2020, forklift driver James googled “jobs where you can talk and not get told off”. After coming across barbering as a career where conversations are encouraged, James decided to begin his journey into barbering.
Starting out barbering in his garage, he quickly realised he needed more guidance, and began training as a HITO apprentice at The Barber Lounge in Christchurch.
“I wanted to train and get qualified but being 26 and having bills to pay meant I couldn’t take time out to do a course,” says James. “A HITO apprenticeship gave me the flexibility to learn, work and earn at the same time.”
In 2022, James’ passion and drive earned him the Barbering Apprentice of the Year award at The Industry Awards.