Most teens are still figuring out their go-to coffee order. Cooper? He’s already planning his own barbershop, and he’s not waiting around for permission to make it happen.
At just 15, Cooper is one of the youngest students at Demi International’s Gold Coast campus, but don’t let his age fool you. He started his training as a Salon Assistant and is now halfway through his SHB30516 Certificate III in Barbering. His vision for the future? To run his own business before he turns 18.
“When I’m 17, I want to set up a small area of my garage,” he says. “Then, at 18, I’m hoping to have my own business by renting a chair at a local barbershop to build a client base. That’s the dream.”
So, what makes a teenager swap textbooks for clippers, and how does someone so young end up so clear on their future? Let’s find out…
Alternative learning pathways give students more flexibility
Leaving school at 15 might seem like a big step, but in Queensland, it’s more common than you think. In fact, nearly three-quarters of early school leavers are engaged in work, training or further study within a year, proving that there’s more than one way to set yourself up for a strong future.
For Cooper, it was about stepping into a career that felt right. And while he could’ve gone down a more traditional apprenticeship path, he knew he wanted something different.
That’s what led him and his mum to do some research—eventually discovering Demi International. The great thing about Demi is that it attracts students at all stages of life, from teens like Cooper to mature-aged students making a complete career change later in life, like John, who swapped tools for trimmers. The mix of age groups helps foster mentorship with trainers, but also amongst peers, building a community that’s especially valuable to those just starting out.
Cooper adds, “We looked at a few training providers, but when I saw Demi online, read their course information and watched videos of people actually learning and cutting, I knew that was it.”
The idea of learning real skills in a hands-on environment stood out straight away. Cooper could see himself there, and he hasn’t looked back since.
“I didn’t want to just jump into work and feel like I was getting thrown in. At Demi, I still get to cut real clients, but I’m learning properly. It’s more relaxed and there’s time to get good at it.”
What school looks like when your classroom is a barbershop
Cooper’s usually one of the first to arrive at Demi International’s Gold Coast campus, using the early start to map out his goals: how many haircuts he wants to get through, what techniques he’s working on and what assessments he needs to be aware of.
Once the doors open at 8:30am, things get moving. Mornings often start with a group chat about the day ahead, sometimes with a live demo of a cut or technique, like a buzz, burst fade or beard trim. Then it’s straight into the fun stuff: cutting real hair on real clients.
“I didn’t even know how to turn on clippers when I started,” Cooper laughs. “Now I’m doing fades with hardly any help. It’s crazy how far I’ve come.”
The afternoon wraps up with a clean-down of the salon and a check-in with trainers to prep for the next day. Even things like folding towels or restocking products are part of the learning. It all builds confidence, routine and the skills he’ll need to run his own shop one day.
Barbering offers clients more than just a haircut, too. With links to improved mental health, barbershops can be a self-care solace for many men, sparking conversation, community and support. At Demi, students are also learning important skills in communication and building client relationships, which helps them nurture these client relationships and build a stronger business.
Big goals (and even bigger motivation)
Cooper’s not just focused on passing his course—he’s already planning how to use it. He’s planning to set up a barbering space in his garage to start building experience and a client base.
“It won’t be anything flash, just enough to get me started. I want to build a name for myself, get better and better, and then rent my own chair in a barbershop.”
He’s clear on the kind of career he wants too. Independence is a big driver.
“I don’t want to work for someone else forever. I want to work for myself and have something that’s mine. That’s the goal.”
And honestly? He’s on track. Jay Matai, barbering trainer, has watched Cooper’s skills improve week on week, adding, “I’m honestly so proud of how far Cooper’s come in such a short time. He’s focused, determined and really open to learning. Watching him master the training each week has been really rewarding.”
Big plans, bold moves
What stands out most about Cooper isn’t just his talent or his head start, it’s his mindset. He has clear plans for the future and is focused on getting there.
“I don’t want a fancy barbershop. I just want something that works, where I can get better, earn some money, and build my reputation,” he adds.
With that kind of clarity and the headstart from Demi, there’s no doubt he’ll get there.
Cooper’s advice for anyone thinking about barbering
“Be yourself. Come in with a positive attitude. Don’t bottle things up, talk to people if you’re struggling with anything. And just have fun! Cut loads of hair and listen to your trainers.”
Simple advice, but solid.
While Cooper might be one of the youngest barbers in training at Demi, he’s already thinking like a seasoned pro. And with ambition in spades, there’s no telling how far he’ll go!
Keen to start your career just like Cooper? Chat with our friendly Course Advisors to explore course options, start dates and more about this rewarding career.
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