KARAWACI, TANGERANG —— Starting something from scratch is often a daunting prospect for many people. The prospect of fierce competition in the job market and a lack of skills often dampens the younger generation’s hopes of becoming self-reliant. However, a different story emerges from the classrooms of Dompet Dhuafa’s Institut Kemandirian (IK).
Here, a real transformation has just taken place. The trainees have proven that limitations are no obstacle as long as there is a willingness to learn. Having started with absolutely no knowledge of the world of hairdressing, they have now transformed into skilled professionals, adept at handling scissors and professional-grade clippers.
After days of theoretical training, a clear transformation began to emerge in the participants. To help them overcome their awkwardness and stiffness, they were immediately put to the test through hands-on practice with real customers. Every strand of hair cut is a process of honing their intuition, sharp eyes and gentle touch.
The Independence Institute recognises that becoming a professional barber requires more than just the skill of cutting hair. Through a structured classroom curriculum tailored to market needs, participants are taught to understand everything from the function of each tool in depth to the anatomy of the customer’s head.
In addition to technical skills (hard skills), customer service skills (soft skills) are also a mandatory part of the programme. They are trained in how to greet customers, build warm rapport, and provide friendly service to ensure the absolute comfort of their clients.
IK Dompet Dhuafa believes that mental preparedness is the key to achieving economic independence. Therefore, throughout the training, participants are continually equipped with various workplace tips and motivational guidance to boost their self-confidence when they actually enter the industry.
This vocational training programme is a tangible solution introduced by IK Dompet Dhuafa to address the challenges of unemployment and the world of work. Through this entire process, the hope is that participants will not only become ready-to-work employees, but will also be able to create their own business opportunities and become drivers of the economy within their own communities.
The Director of the Institute for Self-Reliance, Abdurrahman Usman, emphasised that, “Although this training officially concluded on 4 July 2026, that moment is not the end. The gavel’s final strike is, in fact, the starting signal for the alumni to demonstrate their skills on the real-world industrial stage”.
He added, “Congratulations to all participants who have completed the training with such dedication! May every drop of sweat and every bit of knowledge gained serve as a solid foundation for building a future that is more self-reliant, prosperous and dignified.” (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text and photos: IK
Editor: Dompet Dhuafa