The snipping of scissors and the gentle hum of clippers tell a story of resilience and ambition. Mohamad Al Ahmad, a seasoned barber with over 20 years of experience, has crafted a thriving Waterloo business known as City Style Salon and Barbershop.
When Ahmad first opened his barbershop on Hemlock Street, Waterloo, in 2017, he had a simple goal: to bring his years of expertise from Syria to Canada. By 2020, he had expanded, opening a second location on Phillip Street, an accomplishment he counts as a blessing amid the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic may have presented challenges, but Ahmad’s accomplishment was driven by more than just the desire to succeed.
“I have my family,” he shared, his face softening. “I have five kids, and I have to take care of them. My wife, she is at home and every day I come to work, not just for myself but to support them and my parents.”
His Phillip Street location is divided into two sections: one for men and one for women. The men’s section sees a steady stream of customers, with haircuts ranging from classic trims to trendy fades. However, comparing his clientele is like comparing a spring rain to a thunderstorm, each brings its own energy and its own benefits.
“Men and women are different,” he said. “A men’s haircut costs about $30, whereas colour treatments for women cost way more, but are less frequent.”
On any given day, the shop is filled with the sounds of lively chatter, laughter, and the occasional sound of clippers and hairdryers. The care and skills offered by Ahmad and his team leave a personalized impression on his diverse customers. For regular clients like Thepa Thusi, the difference is striking.
“I noticed that I get compliments on my hair only after coming to this place. They always give me tips on how to take care of my hair type,” said Thusi.
With over 20 years of experience styling different kinds of hair, Ahmad jokes that to deliver this level of customer satisfaction a barber must be part artist, part psychologist, and part fortune teller.
“For example, you have African hair. I can tell what style might fit you. But I always ask first,” he laughed. “You have to understand what they want, and if they can’t explain, I ask them to show me a picture.” Technology, he points out, has revolutionized this process.
Running a barbershop may seem straightforward, but Ahmad likens it to a dance of precision and adaptation. Managing employees, he says, requires strength and patience. He doesn’t simply hire barbers and hairstylists; he mentors them to understand the different types of hair and the unique preferences of his customers.
“It’s a big challenge because, in this area, we have a lot of international students. For example, Chinese people you know, have different types of hair from Black people, and white Canadians,” he explained, noting that not every barber he hired was able to fit in, costing him both time and money.
His faith is another pillar of his strength. As a Muslim, he believes in Rizq or divine sustenance. This belief helps him stay grounded amid the uncertainties of business, serving as a reminder that not everything is within his control.
“Sometimes, we say it’s all Rizq – from God. Maybe you lose something right now, but He will give you something better tomorrow,” he said, his eyes reflecting a quiet confidence.
His dreams extend beyond his current locations. But for Ahmad, growth isn’t just about expanding his business; it’s about maintaining quality and integrity. He believes in taking his time and building a reputation brick by brick, client by client.
“Maybe after one or two years, I’ll open another shop,” he mused. “But not right now. Because it’s too much for me right now for two locations. I work very hard, and I have my family to take care of.”
As Ahmad dreams of the future, he knows that his story is far from over. With scissors in his hand and a heart full of hope, he continues to shape not just hair but self-esteem, one client at a time. Ahmad’s business isn’t just about cutting hair; it’s a journey driven by family dedication, cultural adaptation, and an unyielding passion for his craft.
The journey from Syria to Waterloo has not been easy, but Ahmad managed to make City Style Salon more than a barbershop; it’s now a beacon of cultural exchange, a place where customers of diverse backgrounds feel seen, heard, and understood.
