This is the story of Tweeze, a young barber determined to show up and show out on a big stage — the Master the Mic Barber Competition at Be+Well New York (formerly the International Beauty Show).
Only problem is, real life got in the way.
This is more than a barber’s personal story. It’s about pressure, setbacks, and creating opportunity in the moment. In today’s era of barbering, those who rise aren’t just grooming professionals: they’re students, educators, and leaders.
“Tweeze’s experience in New York, where he turned missed opportunities into a moment of impact, embodies the grit and innovation we’re seeing in today’s emerging talent,” says his mentor, award-winning educator Rodrick Samuels.
“His story reminds both students and seasoned professionals that success in this industry is built through perseverance and mindset as much as skill.”
My name is Antoine and most people know me as Tweeze. I’m a newly licensed barber and a proud graduate of Hair Lab Detroit Barber School.
My journey into this industry started with pressure, uncertainty, and a decision to keep going when quitting felt easier. Barbering didn’t just teach me how to cut hair. It taught me discipline, sharpened my mindset, and gave me purpose.
When Opportunity Called
After one of my toughest days at work, I got a call from Rodrick Samuels inviting me to compete at Be+Well NYC at the Javits Center.
They were hosting Master the Mic, a barber battle on the Glam and Glow stage, where competitors not only have to create a fresh look but educate the audience while they’re working.
I knew immediately this opportunity was bigger than me.
With only three weeks to prepare, I committed fully. I studied head shapes, bone structure, hair textures, and the science behind precision cutting. Barbering at its highest level is not just execution; it’s understanding.
... Then It Fell Apart
Everything went wrong as soon as I left for New York. I forgot my wallet, my flight was delayed, and long TSA lines caused me to miss my connection.
By the time I rebooked, it was too late to compete in the preliminary rounds of Master the Mic. Day one was gone, and so was my opportunity. Or so it seemed.
I decided not to quit. I stayed focused and continued preparing, believing I could still create my moment. When I got to New York I walked into the Javits Center determined to find an opportunity, even if it wasn’t the one I had planned for.
Creating My Own Stage
After hearing “no” again and again, I got a “yes." Gentlemen Republic gave me a chance to demo some techniques at their booth on the show floor.
Yet again, a last-minute obstacle got in my way — my model backed out all of a sudden. But then, someone stepped up to volunteer. I treated it like any walk-in, where you’re meeting the client for the first time and have to make your plan then and there.
One person stopped to watch me cut. Then more people started walking up. Like I’d practiced for the Master the Mic battle, I began teaching while cutting, explaining every step to the onlookers that kept gathering — until the space was completely full.
Purpose, interest, and a love for learning drew that crowd, and I realized I didn’t need the main stage. Right there on the show floor I created something powerful through perseverance.
The Lesson: Don’t Ever Quit.
Not when things go wrong. Not when doors close. Not when you keep hearing “no.” Stay ready, persistent, and disciplined, and you can create opportunity and personal growth anywhere.
Even from the most unexpected people, places, and circumstances. The greater the risk, the greater the reward.
Ask yourself who you are when everything is against you — because that answer defines your future.
I am Antoine. You can call me Tweeze.