Passion Transforms into Success
By Cailyn Kennedy
Former Lenoir Community College Jones County Barber School student Michael O’Neil Brooks is making his mark in Jacksonville at local barber shop, Fade Factor. Brooks has thrived in the business of helping others look and feel like the best version of themselves.
When Covid-19 hit, businesses across the country closed, along with all the barber shops. With barber shops closed and haircuts in high demand, Brooks took matters into his own hands, literally, by mastering the art of cutting his own hair. As he honed his skills, his friends and family became his canvas.
“My fiancé, Shioh, acknowledged my entrepreneurship, artistic talents, passion to promote confidence, and undeniable faith in God. All things considered, Shioh motivated me to pursue barbering as a professional career,” says Brooks.
Encouraged also by his older sister, Angel, Brooks learned about the scholarships offered at the Jones County Barber School, opening a door he never thought possible. “I just jumped on the opportunity. I was excited to turn this hobby I had started into a career,” says Brooks. Despite initial apprehensions, Brook’s dedication to this program has led him to where he is today.
“My favorite aspect of the program was the diversity of experiences and learning of the craft. You don’t just focus on cutting hair, but you get to learn human anatomy, skin care, and more as well.”
During his time at Fade Factor, Brooks has been able to work with clients from many diverse backgrounds, each client having their own unique stories and hair care needs. He has also been able to learn from his mentors and the hands-on experiences he has gained there.
“When I first started working at Fade Factor I was working with a lot of veterans. It was hard to come in and not compare myself to them. It was definitely nerve-wracking, but it helped shape me into who I am today.”
When asked what piece of advice he would offer to students interested in pursuing this educational journey, he responded with "Jump on the opportunity. Have faith, show out, and show up. When I first started this program, I quickly realized that it would be a huge commitment and that is something you have to take seriously.”
As Brooks approaches his one-year milestone at Fade Factor, he reflects on his journey with gratitude and ambition. “It is truly a blessing. I am eager to start my next chapter but am in no rush to leave Fade Factor,” he says. “The growth I have experienced through the barber school and working for Fade Factor is more than I could ever ask for.”
For more information on the Lenoir Community College Barber School Program, please contact Angela Bullock at (252) 747-0232, or email abullock81@lenoircc.edu.
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