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Legends Barber and Cross the Divide restore dignity to the homeless

A simple haircut, a warm meal, and a sense of belonging. Legends Barber partnered with Cross the Divide to bring hope and humanity to the streets of Parktown North.

In a small corner of Parktown North, where compassion meets community, a group of barbers proved that sometimes the simplest acts can carry the deepest meaning. On September 2, Legends Barber part-nered with Cross the Divide to offer free haircuts to homeless men who visit the God First Church every Tuesday for a warm meal.

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What awaited them that morning was unexpected. Six skilled barbers from various Legends Barber branches, guided by Sheldon Tatchell, founder and CEO of Legends Barber, alongside regional manager Phemelo Tlabakoe, set up their chairs and buzzing clippers, ready to serve those in need.

Siphwe smiles after getting his hair cut. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

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At first, there were quiet glances and hesitant smiles, but as each man settled into a chair, the atmos-phere shifted. With every steady pass of the clippers, overgrown hair fell away, revealing not just neater styles but renewed confidence. By the time the fresh cuts were done, shoulders straightened, faces lit up, and pride returned.

“It was an amazing initiative that brought dignity and joy to so many men,” said Dianne Webb from Cross the Divide. “What a busy morning we had. We’re so grateful to Legends Barber for stepping in and making this happen.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth Legends Barber partnered with Cross the Divide on September 2 to give free haircuts to homeless men at the God First Church in Parktown North. Six skilled barbers from various Legends Barber branches. They set up their chairs and clippers to transform overgrown hair into neat, fresh styles. As the clippers buzzed, smiles began to spread, and with each haircut came a renewed sense of confidence and dignity. Video: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe (Edited by: Ashtyn Mackenzie)#rosebank #CommunityMatters #homeless #homelesslivesmatter #legendsbarber #homelessness ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Once the transformations were complete, the men sat down to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal pre-pared by volunteers. On of the volunteers even resumed his much-loved ‘Men’s Circle’, where stories were shared and laughter warmed the room over cups of tea.

This heartfelt initiative was originally sparked by Justin Watkins’ idea, and supported by community members like Tania Watkins and Nicky Franklin from Community Assisting Schools. Together, they turned an ordinary Tuesday into a day of compassion and connection.

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Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

Naziya is a junior journalist who graduated from Monash South Africa in 2022, specialising in Journalism and International Relations. She loves sports, especially Formula 1. Naziya covers a wide range of news topics, from serious current events to community stories, school happenings, and sports news. Naziya’s goal is to provide clear, engaging, and informative stories that make a difference in her community and beyond.

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