While the perception of a hairstylist seems to be gender neutral, a barber is generally assumed to be a man, but it is no longer uncommon to find women breaking into fields of work that have been thought to be restricted to men.
In this special report, a couple of female barbers in Benin City, the capital of Edo State in South-South Nigeria, give insight and share their experiences on the line of work many consider to be exclusive for the male gender.
Oalei Happy is a female barber in Benin City who developed passion for the profession while in school. Supported by her family, she decided to learn the basics.
Three years and six months down the line, she has her own barbing shop and is determined to follow her passion.
Jennifer Omoregie is another female barber in Benin City who works among men in the profession. She likes to be unique and believes she inspires people through her line of work.
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While there may be no pay gap, female barbers face different challenges in getting ahead in a male-dominated field. One of these challanges is trying to earn the trust of their male clientele.
One thing both Happy and Jennifer have in common is a passion to get the job done. The challenges are not enough to dampen their spirits as they are determined to earn a living with this line of work.
They agree that learning a profitable skill is a better alternative to indulging in social vices.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
