Help Me Teach Haircutting Skills in Cambodia — Hair Aid

In just under two weeks, I’m heading back to Cambodia for my 4th volunteer project with Hair Aid — an incredible organization dedicated to empowering people living in critical poverty by teaching them basic haircutting skills. I'll join 18 hairdressers from around the world in donating our time and knowledge- These skills help individuals start their own micro-businesses, earn sustainable income, and support their families.

Cambodia will be Hair Aids 50th project and to date we have trained almost 7,000 people!

Hair Aid works with some of the most vulnerable communities — including survivors of sex trafficking, single mothers, people living on the streets, and those trapped in cycles of poverty. In just five days, trainees learn essential haircutting techniques and receive full toolkits, including scissors, combs, clips, capes, and more, so they can begin their new livelihood immediately.

I am fundraising to cover essential costs including supplies, transportation and tools on the ground to deliver the training. Hair Aid runs 100% by donation and through volunteer support. Every donation helps ensure we can purchase quality haircutting kits and provide additional support to the communities.

Examples of what your donation can provide:

$50 — A cape, comb, and 4 clips

$75 - A scissor/tool belt and water bottle

$100 — A set of haircutting scissors

$250 — A full training kit for one graduate

In previous projects, we’ve also use funds to provide toys, soccer/basketballs, art supplies, and food staples (5kg bags of rice, flour) for the community to use.

From my previous trips — including teaching 20+ women in the Philippines who had never picked up scissors before — I’ve seen firsthand how powerful these skills can be. The trainees go from zero experience to confidently cutting hair on live models within days. It’s a transformative process that offers not just a skill but dignity, hope, and a chance for a better future.

Anything above my fundraising goal or funds not used during the Cambodia trip will be saved for my next volunteer project in October 2025, where I am SO excited to be project lead for Hair Aid in Guatemala, continuing this amazing work.

Thank you for your generosity and support. Together, we can help change lives — one haircut at a time.

To read my blog from my October 2024 Guatemala trip - www.rockpaperhair.com/hairaid

Learn more about Hair Aid and their work: www.hairaid.org.au