That Barber Girl is Transforming Nigeria’s Male-Dominated Industry

In a field traditionally dominated by men, Odedeji Felicia Oluwatosin, popularly known as That Barber Girl,  is rewriting the narrative. Operating a thriving barbing academy in Ilorin, Kwara State, Oluwatosin is making her mark by creating new pathways for women in Nigeria’s barbering industry.

For this edition of Moveee’s Entrepreneurial Spirit, That Barber Girl shares how she built her business from scratch, her philosophy on professionalism, and her vision to make barbing a recognised professional course of study. 

Tell us about That Barber Girl. What’s the story behind the name?

That Barber Girl began as a personal branding choice, inspired by the uniqueness of being a woman in the field. Although no one initially called me by that name, I anticipated that people would eventually grow into it.

Barbering is often seen as a male-dominated field. What inspired you to take this path as a woman?

I have always been drawn to doing unconventional things. I began this journey during the COVID-19 period when I had more free time. Stepping out of my comfort zone, I picked up a training form and committed to completing the process. It is safe to say that nothing inspired me more than my own drive to do something different and to stand out.

How would you describe your early days in the business?

My early days in the field were not easy. One of the major challenges I faced was people’s perception of the profession. In Ilorin, many believe that barbering is a low-paying job. However, my passion and genuine interest kept me going, and today, I can say it has been worth the journey. Those early days were particularly tough; there were days  I funded the business entirely from my personal savings. I also experienced minor health challenges, such as back pain, as my body adjusted to the demands of the work. In addition, I encountered rejection from some clients simply because I am a woman. But through it all, I thank God for growth.

What was your first-ever paid job or gig, and how much did you earn from it?

My first paid job earned me slightly less than ₦10,000. That was in 2020, shortly after I completed my training. Interestingly, the transportation I spent going to and from the office each month was far more than what I earned. Nevertheless, my passion for the work kept me going.

Today you have 6 staff and about 10 students. What key decisions helped you achieve sustainable growth, from starting small to running a full barbing shop and academy?

I would say consistency has been my greatest strength. In barbering, the first two years are less about profit and more about growth—building the mastery you need before stepping into the phase where real earnings begin. I also believe many barbershops struggle with staff retention because they fail to truly support their employees.

In my case, I ensure my staff are well-groomed before they officially join the team, and I create an environment that gives them the accessibility and support they need to work effectively. We also maintain academy standards that allow my trainees to complete their learning within one to two months, unlike the traditional, lengthy training processes. This efficient system not only improves learning outcomes but also increases interest in the academy because the training is both shorter and highly effective.

What has been your most difficult challenge in this entrepreneurial journey, and how did you navigate it?

One of my major challenges was balancing school with running my business. Although I graduated on time with good grades, I believe I could have performed even better if I had not needed to manage the business alongside my studies. Additionally, navigating my service year while continuing to work presented its own set of challenges, requiring careful time management and dedication.  

What qualities do you look for in students or trainees before admitting them?

When it comes to training, I don’t prioritise specific qualities because I believe anyone ready to learn should have the opportunity, provided they meet the requirements and show genuine interest. Most of my staff are trainees I have personally trained and retained due to their work ethic and positive behaviour during training. For staff I did not train directly, we implement a structured two-month training program to ensure they understand and follow our office standards and code of conduct. While a strong CV is valuable, I have learned that in my line of work, character matters more. A staff member’s character directly affects how they interact with clients, so it is crucial to hire only those you trust to uphold your standards.

Can you share an outstanding success story from any of your students or staff that made you feel fulfilled?

There have been quite a few students over the years, too many to recall individually. Many of them are now working with top brands in Lagos, Ikorodu, Abeokuta, and beyond. Students even travel from other states to learn with us, and I can confidently say that, for the most part, they represent the brand very well—although, naturally, not every trainee reaches perfection.

What has been the most difficult decision you’ve had to make while growing your business?

Setting up my own space and standing independently at the age of 19 was a significant challenge. At the time, the fear of being too young and the potential consequences of my decisions weighed heavily on me. However, with growth and experience, I have come to realise that it was not as daunting as it seemed in the beginning.

What financial mistake have you made, and what lesson did it teach you?

I don’t believe I have made any financial decisions that I regret. This is largely because I prioritise reinvesting in my business over spending on materialistic items, such as expensive hairstyles or accessories to enhance my appearance.

What makes your barbing shop and academy stand out from others in Ilorin or even across Nigeria?

For me, I would say that our attention to detail has been what keeps us ahead and helps us stand out from others.

How do you maintain professionalism among your staff and students?

I’m not sure how everyone defines professionalism, but for me, it is largely about creating an environment where staff feel comfortable. Fostering cordial relationships that encourage ethical communication is key to maintaining professionalism. I believe it is possible to be both serious and professional while also being approachable and at ease with my staff. Striking this balance is what I consider true professionalism.

What do you think people misunderstand about the barbering profession, and where do you see its future in Nigeria, especially for women?

I am very happy because when I first started, the percentage of females in the industry was only around 10%. Now, I see more women entering the field, which I believe is inspired by stories from myself and others who started early. Barbering is evolving rapidly, and it is exciting to witness its growth. Today, females make up approximately 40% of barbers in Nigeria, which I find both impressive and encouraging.

In the age of social media, how do you keep up with trends and the latest technology in the grooming industry to sustain your brand growth?

I always encourage my students to follow trends, as social media offers endless opportunities for growth. In fact, my first interview with a media house came as a direct result of consistently updating my social media page

It’s 2025. What does that barber girl academy look like now?

We envision ‘BarberGirl Academy’ expanding to include multiple learning facilities and departments.

Do you have plans to expand beyond Ilorin?

Definitely, beyond Ilorin and even beyond Nigeria; That barber girl academy is actually a big brand, and it is going places.

If resources were unlimited, what big project would you implement to shape the future of the barbering industry?

If resources were unlimited, I would establish academies all over Nigeria and even internationally. My goal is to demonstrate that barbering is more than just a trade—it is a full-fledged course of study. Similar to countries like Canada, where people undergo three-year programs and can become licensed professionals, I envision barbering being recognised at that level of professionalism and structure.

What has entrepreneurship taught you about yourself?

I used to think I was an introvert because before I started my business, I didn’t interact much with people. However, this changed when I stepped into the role of an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurship taught me that there is no room for being an introvert—if you don’t talk about what you do, no one else will do it for you.

 Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently when starting out?

No, except perhaps that I could have started my academy earlier. However, the timing was still perfect for me, so my answer remains no.

What advice would you give to young women who want to venture into unconventional careers like barbering?

Whatever you want to do, just take action. As long as you have a clear vision and a plan, pursue it with confidence and determination.

Entrepreneurial Spirit is a Moveee series showcasing the industriousness of African entrepreneurs and business builders, exploring their triumphs, challenges, and the intersection of life and business. You can also share your story by contacting us today.