#Japan #Tokyo #Ghana #CLOUDY #MR.BROTHERS CUT CLUB

Celebrating Barbering Excellence: CLOUDY x MR.BROTHERS CUT CLUB

In March 2024, the CLOUDY x MR.BROTHERS CUT CLUB Barber Academy opened its doors in Accra, the capital of Ghana. This initiative, a collaboration between the nonprofit organization CLOUDY and the corporate entity Fireworks, has marked a significant development in barber education in the region. On December 21 and 22, 2025, the academy hosted its inaugural graduation ceremony and barber competition, celebrating the achievements of 32 students from its first two cohorts.

The Competition

The barber competition featured eight selected students who showcased their skills through a challenging format. The first round, titled "Free Task," required participants to complete a haircut and styling for their models within a strict 30-minute time limit. Judges assessed the contestants on several criteria, including hygiene, time management, fade techniques, overall completion, and creativity. Among the panel was a special judge from Japan, Mr. Nishimori, representing MR.BROTHERS CUT CLUB. He commended the students, stating, "The level of skill shown here can make an immediate impact abroad."

The results revealed a strong competition:
1. Abraham Sowu Narh - 1st Place
2. Victoria Adubea Saka - 2nd Place
3. Isaac Appiah - 3rd Place

Graduation Ceremony

The graduation ceremony took place on December 22, with over 100 attendees, including government officials and family members, witnessing the momentous occasion. Of the graduating class, 13 students participated actively. In Ghana, cultural priorities often shift towards immediate employment, which has led many students to start working even before graduation. Therefore, the graduates who could attend were congratulated on this special day.

The graduates expressed their heartfelt gratitude, stating that the bonds formed with their mentors and peers during their time at the academy were their most treasured assets. They expressed a resolve to leverage the skills learned to thrive in the barbering industry. Mr. Quanoo Michael, the Director of the Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institution under the Ghanaian government, shared his insights on the importance of acquiring skills, noting that such training broadens life choices and correlates with increased income. He expressed joy at the establishment of Ghana's first barber academy, recognizing its potential impact.

Future Developments

Currently, the barber academy holds a provisional status. Within the next six months, plans are in motion to submit an official application for full accreditation as a vocational institution. Achieving this recognition will enhance the qualification value for students and create wider opportunities for young individuals to build stable careers through skilled work.

Overview of CLOUDY

CLOUDY, established in December 2010, is focused on addressing social issues in Africa through education, employment, and health. Based in Ghana, the organization listens to community needs, engaging in various grassroots support initiatives such as:

• - Education support through school construction and operations.
• - Job creation via the establishment of sewing factories and training programs.
• - Health support, including providing school meals and sexual education.

The vision of CLOUDY is built upon collaborative support rather than mere handouts. By partnering with local businesses, they aim to establish sustainable educational and employment systems that empower the community.

Overview of Fireworks

Fireworks, founded in 2013, has launched various initiatives including the vintage shop "Hedy" and the barber shop "MR.BROTHERS CUT CLUB." They also distribute the famous Pabst Blue Ribbon beer in over 25 countries and the Asian pomade brand "BROSH." The company thrives on a business concept termed "Cultural Connective," focusing on providing the intrinsic value of products and services while connecting traditional culture with contemporary art forms.

MR.BROTHERS CUT CLUB

Initiated in Harajuku, Tokyo in 2015, MR.BROTHERS CUT CLUB places significant importance on the genuine essence of barbering, creating a space where men can groom themselves while engaging with others from diverse lifestyles. The establishment has redefined barber culture through a modern lens while staying true to its classic roots, sparking a movement in men's hairstyling throughout Japan.