this same mindset. Coming from addiction and
hating himself, he experienced that all consuming
self-hate that brings one to their knees and cry. He
understands what it’s like for the people he helps.
It’s not sympathy, it’s empathy in action. In becoming a barber, kicking his addiction, and becoming
successful at what he does restored his faith and
happiness in himself. He flourishes in watching the
whole life of a client and attitude go from zero to
hero with just one cut. Nasir has quickly become
a recognizable figure on the streets, a dashing
superhero on his skateboard. For those that stop
him and ask for help, Nasir happily and without
hesitation lends a hand.
addiction himself, he had judgement, why waste
time on someone who is wasting others’ lives? But
then he remembered the promise he made when
he was clean and decided on becoming the Streets
Barber - help people, no matter what. He wasn’t
cond oning this deal, he just decided to not judge
the man. A month later, the same man found him.
He told Nasir that since their encounter, a lot has
happened. He didn’t want to sell anymore. He wanted to be a better dad and not go back to prison.
Three months later, Nasir saw him again. The man
put on weight and indicated that he was no longer
using. Nasir saw firsthand the turn of events that
came as a result of his non-judgement.
When asked if he had a favorite person or story
from his many days of street barbering, he recalls
one particular man. He needed Nasir’s services but
informed him that it needed to be brief. He wanted
a shave but told Nasir he couldn’t be out too long.
Nasir put it together that he was a local heroin
dealer after he had to stop for a moment so the
man could do a deal in front of him. After this occurred, it triggered Nasir. As a man of overcoming
The Streets Barber doesn’t just cater to the streets
of Melbourne. His service work applies to his
travels. Not only does Nair get tattooed when he
travels, he brings his kit and kind ear to listen to
the people’s stories. His own body is covered in
memories and art, something that he wears proudly. He plans on moving to New York soon, bringing
his project to the U.S. and spreading his word and
actions across the globe.
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