Barbers offering free haircuts to underprivileged people

AMMAN — Anas Salameh, 13 years old, was for a long time fascinated with the idea of being a barber, spending his free time and school breaks learning the basics of the profession and practising it at his uncle’s barbershop.

His uncle, however, not only inspired him to join this profession, but also to volunteer to cut hair free of charge to support underprivileged individuals. 

On Monday, Salameh and 29 other barbers transformed the Hashemite Square in downtown Amman into an open-air barbershop, with the simple aim of bringing some joy to children and adults alike.

Salameh could not hide his excitement when he was asked why he decided to volunteer.

“I wanted to make people happy. I love this profession because it is an enjoyable one,” he said, surrounded by barbers and clients.

His uncle Sobhi Abdul Ghani Assaf initiated the campaign, dubbed Naeeman (the Arabic blessing for someone who has had a haircut), bringing together barbers from his shop and beyond to support Jordanians who cannot afford a haircut.

He stressed that when people have their hair cut and look good, this can give a boost of confidence and lift their spirits.

“There are 30 barbers taking part in the initiative, and when we promoted the event, everyone showed willingness to participate,” 33-year-old Assaf added. 

Younes Hindi, said he works at Assaf’s shop, and when he was told about the initiative, he decided to help out. 

“For me, I can go to any barbershop to get a haircut, but many others cannot afford it,” the 33-year-old added.

Mutlaq Al Odwan was taking a walk through downtown Amman when he saw a large group of barbers standing in the square doing their job.

“I was taking a stroll in downtown Amman and I saw this event, and decided to get a haircut. It’s a really good initiative because it helps support people who cannot afford to do this,” he added.

Assaf voiced hope that those working in different professions would organise similar initiatives.

“I hope that other barbers follow in our footsteps, and I want to continue doing this activity every Monday. I hope that every person does a good deed through his/her own profession.”