Ara students take their skills to The Barbering Crusade

More than 40 Ara Institute of Canterbury barbering ākonga (students) stepped out of the classroom and onto the big stage last weekend.

For the first time, the end-of-year showcase for the New Zealand Certificate in Commercial Barbering was held off campus at The Barbering Crusade – New Zealand’s key event “by barbers, for barbers.”

Just weeks from finishing their studies, the Ara ākonga demonstrated the creativity and technical skill that will soon launch their careers in front of industry leaders, employers, and supporters.

The Crusade, organised by Ara tutor Luke Koia alongside the Christchurch Hip Hop Summit, brought together the best barbers from across Aotearoa to compete for $7,000 in prizes and share knowledge through workshops and live battles.

Koia, a respected barber with 15 years’ experience, said it was a privilege to create the opportunity for his Ara ākonga.

“Taking their showcase off campus and into an industry event gives them real-world experience, confidence, and connections that will help shape their careers,” he said.

_{Against the clock competition rounds under the watchful eye of judges Jess Aroha and Donna Freeman}

Judges for the Ara showcase included industry leaders Jess Aroha (Whitireia Polytechnic tutor and owner of She Fades) and Donna Freeman (from Ōtautahi’s Mankind Barbers), who praised the students’ creativity and professionalism.

The showcase was sponsored by Jason Nguyen from House of Barber, who also supports Ara graduates with work experience and employment opportunities. First-place winners from each cohort received Matsui scissors valued at $400.

Among the standout performers were Marcus Wong, whose working career began with a graphic design degree and included 20 years in Hong Kong’s fashion industry.

At 49, he’s finally following his passion for hair: “Working with hair is like creating art. I’ve waited years to do this, and I love it,” he said.

Jack Bain, who’s turned an interest into a career path also impressed. “I’ve been cutting mates’ hair for two years,” he said. “Ara’s course has taught me so much – now I’m almost ready to find work, keep learning, and hopefully go out on my own one day.”

_{Left image Luke Koia, Marcus Wong, Jason Nguyen & Tommy (Gents Academy) Right image includes: Jack Bain & Rachael Mountstevens}  

Lead tutor, senior academic Rachael Mounstevens said the connection with Luke Koia and the Barbering Crusade was hugely beneficial for Ara.

“Luke came in as an employer, shared his expertise, and now tutors with us three days a week. Having him lead the Crusade and create this opportunity for our students is incredible – it’s opened doors for them to meet employers and showcase their talent on a bigger stage.”

So much more than a competition, The Barbering Crusade was a celebration of skill, culture, and community and a key event for shaping the next generation of barbers.

_{Winning styles of Marcus Wong (left) and Jack Bain (right)}