With clippers in hand, a warm smile, and an unstoppable work ethic, 19-year-old Jalal has become a beloved fixture at S12 Community Pantry – and a testament to what happens when young people are given the right support to thrive.

When Jalal arrived in Sheffield, he brought something many might overlook: a genuine passion for barbering. He had experience cutting hair back home and was determined to build on it. While studying hard to improve his English and Maths and received support from Roundabout, he volunteered as the City of Sanctuary’s barber for several months – gaining confidence, honing his craft, and quietly proving himself.

“He always cannot wait to tell me how many people he has made smile by cutting their hair.”

It was during a Roundabout social outing – one of the our regular trips to help young people we support explore Sheffield — that a chance encounter changed everything. The group visited S12 Community Pantry, a warm and welcoming community space run by dedicated volunteers. Jalal felt immediately at home. When he mentioned his dream of becoming a barber, one of the pantry volunteers didn’t hesitate: “Well come on then lad, come here in the week and you can cut my hair.”

Jalal playing bingo at S12 Community Pantry

With support from Hayley, Roundabout’s Employment and Skills Worker, funding was secured for Jalal to have his very own set of equipment – no longer relying on borrowed tools. The pantry created posters to advertise his new role as voluntary barber, with the initial plan of one session per month, but Jalal being Jalal had other ideas!

“He asked to come every week instead!”

Putting in 110% as he does in every opportunity life presents him, Jalal asked whether he could attend weekly rather than monthly. Now, once a week, you’ll find him at the pantry, clippers in hand, with a queue of regulars forming.

What began as experience in men’s barbering has since grown organically. His infectious personality and evident talent have drawn in visitors of all kinds – Jalal has discovered a flair for cutting women’s hair too, and shown remarkable patience with young children experiencing their very first haircut.

Jalal cutting hair at S12 Community Pantry

“His smile could brighten even a proper grey Yorkshire day.”

Jayne from the pantry has seen the impact first-hand. She recalls Jalal first wandering in, having a great time playing his very first game of bingo and even attempting a few words of Yorkshire dialect. After that visit, his first instinct was to ask how he could give something back.

“It didn’t take long before everyone started asking for him by name. In just a few weeks he’s built up a little queue of regulars. Everyone says the same thing — he’s polite, caring, respectful, and clearly a barber to watch. Safe to say he knows his way round a pair of clippers.”

What Jalal’s story tells us

Jalal opening a Christmas gift from Roundabout

Jalal’s journey is a reminder of what becomes possible when drive and talent meet the right support. From sourcing equipment to social outings that forged real community connections, every small act has compounded into something remarkable. He is 19 years old, building a career and building confidence – one haircut at a time.

This is what happens when young people are given the tools to thrive. And that’s what Roundabout is all about, with a little (lot of) help from our friends at S12 Community Pantry.

Find out more about S12 Community Pantry.