Last Updated on: 16th May 2025, 03:35 pm
Pokz Hair Studios in Croydon is reshaping the traditional role of a barbershop, offering not only expert hair replacement for Black men but also a trusted space for emotional support and connection.
Established in 2023 by Opoku Kunadu-Yiadom, the studio has become a vital refuge for clients seeking both external transformation and internal healing. Opoku, a certified barber from the London School of Barbering with a specialism in Hair Replacement Systems, changed careers during the COVID-19 lockdown, moving from quantity surveying into barbering. Since then, his business has grown rapidly—from an initial client base of 10 to serving dozens each month, with revenues now surpassing £100,000 annually.
“It’s not just about the haircut,” said Opoku. “It’s about creating a space where men feel safe to open up about their struggles, be it depression, job loss, or personal challenges. The barber-client relationship is powerful; sometimes, it’s the only place where men feel they can truly be themselves.”
The initiative is especially crucial in light of the disproportionate mental health challenges affecting Black men in the UK. Data indicates they are 17 times more likely to receive a diagnosis of serious mental illness compared to white men, and are often subjected to more frequent interventions—while simultaneously being less likely to access ongoing support due to stigma and barriers within the system.
Opoku shared a personal example: “One of my regular clients stopped coming in. Concerned, I reached out and discovered he was battling depression after losing his job and facing personal issues. I invited him for a free haircut. That simple act helped restore his confidence, and he soon secured a new job. It’s moments like these that underscore the importance of what we do.”
At Pokz Hair Studios, mental wellness is prioritised alongside appearance. For Opoku, it’s part of a broader mission to advocate for men’s mental health and parental alienation, adding that “hair is just the beginning – it’s about holistic well-being.”
