Fail Forward #14 | Where Hairstyle Meets Experience: A New Era in Barbering | Malesela, Dino & Roche
In this heartwarming episode of Fail Forward Fridays, Malesela and Roche welcome their first guest, Dino, the co-owner of The Dapper Den, a stylish barber shop located in Pretoria East. The trio dives into an engaging conversation about Dino’s journey into the world of barbering, the challenges of starting a business, and the deeper cultural significance of men’s hair and self-care.
Dino shares how his passion for barbering began during the COVID-19 lockdown when he taught himself to cut hair out of necessity. What started as a personal experiment evolved into a dream to create a space where men (and women who prefer shorter styles) could not only get a haircut but also enjoy a relaxing, confidence-boosting experience. The Dapper Den, which opened in December 2023, is designed to be more than just a barber shop—it’s a place where clients can unwind, connect, and leave feeling their best.
The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as they discuss the cultural and historical significance of hair, particularly in African communities. Dino reflects on how hair has been a marker of identity and pride, from pre-colonial times to the present day. They also touch on the politics of hair in schools and workplaces, questioning why Western standards of “neatness” often overshadow African traditions.
Dino opens up about the challenges of starting a new business, from hiring the right talent to balancing the expectations of different clientele. He emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming environment and building a brand that resonates with people. The team at The Dapper Den is intentional about offering more than just a haircut—they provide an experience, complete with hot towel treatments, face scrubs, and a calming atmosphere.
As the episode wraps up, Dino shares his vision for the future, including the possibility of expanding into a kid-friendly space and giving back to the community. Inspired by stories like that of New York hairstylist Mark Bustos, who offers free haircuts to the homeless, Dino hints at plans to make a positive impact in his own way.
This episode is a celebration of resilience, passion, and the power of community. Dino’s journey is a testament to the idea that failure is just a stepping stone to success, and his story leaves listeners feeling inspired and hopeful. From all of us at Fail Forward Fridays, we wish Dino and The Dapper Den continued growth and success. Don’t forget to visit them in Pretoria East for a truly dapper experience!
Until next time, keep failing forward! 🌟
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South Africa