POSTCARD FROM AFRICA-- THE UNKNOWN BARBER

Ayler Msolo is a natural artist. Growing up, he loved being creative.  As he got older,  he knew that he needed to work and provide for his family. Ayler came up with a great way of using his creative side to earn a living – being a barber. 

Cutting people’s hair gave him an outlet that made him feel good and his clients look good. Although his clients were delighted with his services, they were young and unemployed which did not make for a great business model.

Through his pastor, who is part of the Orchard Network, Ayler was invited to attend training at the Orchard: Africa Impact Center where, in collaboration with two other non-profits and experts in their field, small business owners receive training and development.

After completing the training, Ayler’s marketing skills improved. He was assisted with the design of a brand and a logo. He was provided with a creative signboard for his premises as well as a stack of business cards.

Prior to this business training, Ayler made door-to-door house calls in his desperation to find clients. Now his clientele has grown to the point that getting a booking with him has to be done well in advance. His barber shop, called The Unknown Barber, has people standing in line for his services. He is not so unknown anymore.

Not only can Ayler now provide for his family, but he has also created an additional job by employing an assistant.

Through your support of our Impact Center, you are helping to combat unemployment. On behalf of Ayler and others like him, we thank you! You are making a tangible difference.