Pokz Hair Studios in Croydon is breaking new ground by providing not only expert grooming and hair replacement services but also emotional support tailored specifically for Black men.
Founded in 2023 by Opoku Kunadu-Yiadom, the studio has quickly become known as more than just a barbershop. It is a welcoming, judgement-free environment where clients can talk openly, feel heard, and leave not only looking but feeling better. Opoku, a graduate of the London School of Barbering with advanced training in Hair Replacement Systems, left his role as a quantity surveyor during the lockdown to pursue his passion. His vision has paid off, with the business expanding from 10 initial clients to a regular, growing customer base—and revenues rising from £40,000 to over £100,000 per year.
“It’s not just about the haircut,” said Opoku. “It’s about creating a space where men feel safe to open up about their struggles, be it depression, job loss, or personal challenges. The barber-client relationship is powerful; sometimes, it’s the only place where men feel they can truly be themselves.”
That safe space is urgently needed. Black men in the UK face some of the highest rates of mental health diagnosis and intervention, yet are statistically less likely to seek help. Social stigma, cultural expectations, and systemic inequality all play a part in creating a mental health gap that Pokz Hair Studios is working to bridge.
Opoku recalled one experience that stuck with him: “One of my regular clients stopped coming in. Concerned, I reached out and discovered he was battling depression after losing his job and facing personal issues. I invited him for a free haircut. That simple act helped restore his confidence, and he soon secured a new job. It’s moments like these that underscore the importance of what we do.”
More than a grooming studio, Pokz is a movement—committed to mental health advocacy, especially around men’s well-being and parental alienation. As Opoku reminds us, “hair is just the beginning – it’s about holistic well-being.”
