How mentorship, education, and determination turned a vision into a thriving barbershop.
In 2023, during a book tour stop in El barrio de La Vega in Caracas, Álvaro Pérez Miranda met a community leader and a group of young men, ages 18–22, who dreamed of becoming barbers. Their ambition sparked a vision for mentorship and change.
“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”
Álvaro's goal was not to simply give resources, but to empower these young men with lasting skills. Through mentorship, discipline, and education, they began to transform their dream into something real.
Over the past year, the group trained not only in barbering, but also in accounting, management, and entrepreneurship. They learned what it takes to cut hair — and to run a business.
This August, their vision comes to life with the opening of “Jóvenes Barberos de La Vega.” More than a barbershop, it is a symbol of empowerment, community, and the impact of mentorship.
“This barbershop is only the beginning — a model for the kind of change we can bring to life, one community at a time.”
— Álvaro Pérez Miranda
11 young men trained in barbering and business skills
100+ hours of business education covering entrepreneurship and financial literacy
First community-owned barbershop in La Vega, creating lasting economic impact
A memoir of resilience, cross-cultural discovery, and the hospitality journey that led to becoming Goodwill Ambassador for Japanese Cuisine. Álvaro's story bridges cultures and communities through personal transformation.
100% of book proceeds support Fe y Alegría, a Jesuit-founded international movement providing quality education to marginalized youth globally across 22 countries.
Supporting education for marginalized youth worldwide
Supporting education for marginalized youth worldwide