YOGYAKARTA —-— Dompet Dhuafa, through the Institute for Self-Reliance, in collaboration with Audy Dental, launched a free barber training program in Sleman, Yogyakarta, on Friday (April 24, 2026). The program aims to empower the community by equipping participants with practical skills while fostering an entrepreneurial spirit.
A total of 15 selected participants are taking part in the intensive training, which runs through June 2026. During the training, participants learn modern barbering techniques, tool usage, sanitation standards, customer service, and the basics of entrepreneurship.
In addition to technical skills, participants are also equipped with soft skills such as communication, financial management, work ethics, and discipline. This training is expected to ensure that participants are not only technically skilled but also professionally prepared to enter the workforce.
After completing the training, participants were given the opportunity to work at Arfa Barber—a skills training partner of the Independence Institute—to support the development of their competencies. The Director of the Independence Institute, Abdurrahman Usman, emphasized that this training is intended to be a golden opportunity for people who want to improve their skills while also opening up opportunities for independent business in the barbershop sector.
“Many young people have the passion, but not all have the opportunity. Through this collaboration, we aim to provide a pathway for them to acquire the necessary skills, build self-confidence, and secure a brighter future,” he said.
This training not only offers hands-on learning from experienced instructors but also includes an official certificate to help participants enter the workforce or launch their own businesses.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Zahron, Head of the Dompet Dhuafa Yogyakarta Branch, stated that this program is part of an effort to utilize zakat productively to foster economic self-reliance in the community.
“Zakat should not only provide temporary assistance but also help build self-reliance. We hope this program will mark the beginning of a life-changing journey for the participants,” he explained.
One of the participants, Zulfan Fauzi, admitted he was enthusiastic about joining this program. In his view, the service industry, such as barbershops, offers strategic opportunities, especially since the need for haircuts is routine and part of one’s lifestyle.
“I want to improve my skills. Being a barber is cool because it helps people look more confident. I hope this program continues,” he said.
In addition to improving the quality of human resources, this training is also expected to open opportunities for participants to become economically independent, whether by entering the workforce or starting their own businesses.
In line with this, the owner of Arfa Barber, Muhammad Arief Fathoni, emphasized that dedication to the learning process is the key to developing skills and opening up business opportunities in the barbering industry.
“Every process requires perseverance. Participants who are serious have a great chance of succeeding—and even growing alongside Arfa Barber,” he said.
The Independence Institute also provides experienced mentors to guide participants from the beginner to advanced levels. Through this free barbering training, the Independence Institute hopes that more young people will acquire skills, earn an income, and be able to independently strengthen their family’s economy. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text and photos: Independence Institute, Anndini
Editor: Ronna