Essen Similien

My name is Essen Similien, born and raised in Cambridge, Massachusetts. What started as a hobby in my mom’s apartment grew into a lifelong passion. I’ve always loved creating art, and I’ve come to see barbering as another form of artistic expression.

I began cutting hair at 17 after years of bad haircuts and miscommunication. Though I struggled at first—often wearing hats to school to hide mistakes—I eventually mastered the craft. Now, with six years of experience, I focus on creating a welcoming environment, building meaningful relationships, and being a resource for my community.

Through barbering, I’ve helped peers discover their paths, lent a listening ear, and connected people to helpful resources. This program excites me because it supports barbers like me in continuing to grow and give back to our communities.