From Experience to Impact: Leathers’ Journey

JacQuil Leathers is the owner and master stylist behind 7 Cutz Above, a unique barbershop that specializes in catering to individuals with autism. While she provides haircuts for the public, her true passion lies in ensuring that those with special needs feel comfortable and valued during their grooming experience.

“I had a lot of times I went to a barbershop, and they weren’t kind to me,” Leathers said, reflecting on her own experiences. This sentiment sparked her motivation to create a safe and welcoming space for others who might face similar challenges. Leathers embarked on her journey after participating in a walk from Raleigh to Atlanta, which included stops at various cities to support a hair salon dedicated to special needs clients. The walk not only inspired her but also reignited her commitment to the community, particularly influenced by her younger sister, Jessica, who also has special needs.

“She is the heartbeat to our family. She’s everything. She definitely inspired me to keep going,” Leathers said, emphasizing the deep connection she has with her sister. Recognizing a gap in the market for a hairstylist who understands the unique needs of this demographic, Leathers took the plunge to establish 7 Cutz Above. It was a leap of faith, driven by a shared vision with her support system.

“We had a dream and they believed in it with me. And we just took off in hopes that it would just all come together,” Leathers said. This dream became a reality as 7 Cutz Above grew into a nurturing environment for individuals who often feel marginalized in traditional barbershops. Leathers felt it was crucial to create a space that prioritizes understanding, patience, and empathy.

In her quest to extend her impact, Leathers has taken her skills on the road, becoming a traveling hairstylist who educates others in the industry. For two months, she has traveled to various local barbershops, teaching fellow barbers and stylists the specialized techniques needed to cut hair for individuals with autism. She affectionately named this initiative the “Sensory Tour.”

Leathers believes that mastering this unique approach requires more than just technical skill; it demands love, trust, and patience. “We need people to open their mind and their hearts up and give their skills out to this community,” she said, encouraging her peers to embrace the opportunity to serve this often-overlooked population.

Understanding that many clients may have sensory sensitivities and may be apprehensive about visiting a new environment, Leathers takes extra steps to ensure that they feel comfortable in her chair. For children, she often brings small treats to help ease any anxiety associated with getting a haircut.

“I did put trophies in there just because a lot of the kids that came in today, this was their first time in a barbershop getting their hair cut. And we want to celebrate that and make sure that it’s a monumental moment for them,” Leathers said. This celebration of milestones not only makes the experience enjoyable but also instills a sense of accomplishment in her clients.

Leathers has a vision to expand her reach even further. Currently, she has been using her own car to provide services to those across North Carolina. However, she dreams of converting a van into a mobile barbershop, allowing her to bring her compassionate approach to even more individuals who need it. She mentioned her desire to acquire a van and transform it into a mobile barbershop to extend her services to those in need outside of North Carolina.