Today we’d like to introduce you to Jovan Figueroa.
Jovan, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I decided I needed to take action for my family due to my father falling into ICU due to complications in health. I began cutting hair in my parents back yard for $3-5 dollars to try and make ends meet for the family. But the age of 15 going on 16 I found myself cutting hair in Naranja FL. There were definitely trying times as it wasn’t the greatest of neighborhoods in the south Florida area at that time (1995-96). By the age of 17, I was able to play a pivotal role in the help of their finances. 24 years later at the age of 38, I find myself with a private studio called “Man of Culture” were building up the man is key. As a barber, we are more than just a person that services a “haircut” for another. We are therapist, a friend, business partners and the hub for information. We are the eyes and ears in the streets for most people. We know what is going on out there due to the information that comes too us on a daily.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
As they say “smooth roads never make good drivers.”
It was never an easy road growing up. Throughout the years jumping from shop to shop trying to create a better income and environment for yourself, you can lose a those clients and friendships along the way. Some will not take to the growth you are trying to make in your life simply cause it interferes with their “convenience” which is understandable. During those times I began to live by a motto: “If you can’t change the people around you, change the people around you”.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Man of Culture – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I am the creative director for “Man of Culture” in the Arts & Entertainment district. It is a private studio where art is created in all forms. Growing up I wanted to do everything I could possibly do in the arts so I set to do just that. MOC is a creative studio where we specialize in men (not excluding women) grooming all while collaborating with elite level barber and stylist from around the world in editorial styling, photography, and education. Apart from the hair industry, having a background in graffiti and music and visual art I have been able to consult and collaborate with and for other artists in their respected field from around the world.
What sets me apart? Grit. The ability to keep going no matter what. Knowing that I put my faith in something higher and believing that it will be done.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
The day my dad bought me an unopened sealed box of Marvel Comic cards. We couldn’t afford much these days but he never stopped working to provide for myself and my brother. That day is something I will never forget.
Contact Info:
- Address: Man of Culture
1657 N Miami Ave Unit #911
Miami FL 33136 - Website: www.manofculture.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @MOCLIVING
Image Credit:
Jovan Figueroa
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