Local barber gives back by giving free hair cuts to children

Bongani Malava Sithole (30) celebrated Nelson Mandela Day by using his profession to give back to the community.

He used his 67 minutes to cut children’s hair at the Tumelo Home for the Handicapped in Ivory Park.

Bongani started doing hair when he was in primary school in about 2006.

The home salon his mother ran inspired him.

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During his primary school years, Bongani witnessed firsthand how children teased each other over their hairstyles.

Bongani said his experience with bullying at school filled his heart with anger.

He added that his anger encouraged him to start the Cut For Change, Smile Restoration Movement because he wanted to help make children feel comfortable. He also wanted to restore confidence in children.

Bongani believes a perfect haircut has its way of boosting confidence.

He works as a professional barber and uses his free time to visit homes and schools, where he gives haircuts to those less fortunate.

He started his organisation on Mandela Day last year when he officially decided to put a label on his craft and formalise it after doing it for four years.

Bongani said he used to go around the streets of Johannesburg cutting people’s hair for free as an act of love.

His goal has always been to see another person on the streets be comfortable with their hair.

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When speaking to The Thembisan, Bongani said the challenge he experienced on his journey was a lack of capital.

“It is hard for me to buy equipment to fulfil the purpose I have in mind. I find myself in a situation where my equipment was stolen. Many people on the street make money from selling property they find or steal.

“If my equipment gets stolen, I have to start from scratch. The passion to help people is always there,” he said.

He said a highlight of his work is that people never forget his name.

“I’ve restored their confidence, even if only for that short period. People who recognise me whenever they see me show me that what I am doing brings a smile to their faces. The intention has always been to help the community,” said Bongani.

The administrator for Tumelo Home, Sarah Makola, said she appreciates seeing the community lend a helping hand.

“It is always amazing to see people recognise our work and lend a helping hand to help fulfil our purpose. Seeing these children receive all the love from the community is evidence that our work is appreciated out there.

“We are grateful to Bongani for taking time out of his schedule to help cut our children’s hair free of charge. May he not change his ways.”

Bongani has worked closely with the home for a long time.

“It would be great if more barbers could join me in their free time to ensure children and the less privileged at least receive one haircut.”