From Brooklyn to Atlanta: The Journey of a Barber Who Transforms More Than Just Hair
- Asia Diamond
- 23 hours ago
- 6 min read
For Troy Malone—better known as "The Handsome Barber"—the art of barbering is more than a profession; it’s a calling, a canvas, and a bridge to meaningful change. His story begins in Brooklyn, the birthplace of his craft, but it takes a turn when an unexpected responsibility brings him to Atlanta. Here, Troy discovers more than a new city; he finds a sense of purpose, peace, and a platform to make an impact.
What started as a hobby—clipping and styling for family and friends—flourished into a full-fledged career during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, Troy is the proud founder of Handsome Academy Studio, a space where barbering transcends tradition. His chairs aren’t just for haircuts; they’re for transformation—spiritual, emotional, and physical.
Through his groundbreaking “Homeless to Handsome” initiative and his commitment to serving first responders, senior citizens, and everyone in between, Troy has redefined what it means to be a barber. In this exclusive feature, we delve into the journey, vision, and passion of the man who’s making Atlanta—and the world—a better place, one haircut at a time. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from the man behind the chair, whose work goes far beyond haircuts—it’s about transforming lives.
YV MEDIA: From Brooklyn to Atlanta: What inspired your move from Brooklyn to Atlanta, and how has this journey shaped your approach to barbering?
TM: There was an incident that happened with my little sister and I had to come be a Big Brother. When I was visiting, it reminded me of Long Island. I felt at peace while on my visit and decided to visit again soon so I could enjoy it. I came back about a month later and literally stayed. I didn’t even focus on cutting for years. I inconsistently cut for years, cutting my little brother and cousins, here and there.
YV MEDIA: You emphasize providing more than just haircuts. What are some memorable moments or feedback from clients that highlight this commitment?
TM: A lot of memorable highlights really include great conversations and THAT SMILE or head nod of satisfaction at the end of the cut when they look into the mirror. It’s the best feeling when someone sees your art and says, “That’s it right there.” My life growing up was a little fought and tough and I didn’t get too many people that smiled at me in satisfaction of what I was doing. So, to see that is really a happiness that really replaces my frowns from a child.
YV MEDIA: Your studio welcomes everyone, from first responders to senior citizens. How do you tailor your services to meet the diverse needs of your clientele?
TM: I really just want to show my appreciation to those people and workers that, in this day and time aren’t as appreciated as they could be. This new generation aren’t as respectful and appreciative as I’m used to my generation being, in my perspective. I tailor my services to my clients by giving them exactly what they want. Nowadays, we go to get a service and at times don’t even get what we want and it’s a hassle because it takes away from our peace of being able to sit back and relax without having to be worried if we’re getting the desired service we ordered.
YV MEDIA: What sparked the idea for the "Homeless to Handsome" movement, and what are its core objectives?
TM: I’m always trying to find ways to be different. I don’t like to talk, walk, dress, or even cut like anyone else. I grew up always trying to fit in and fitting in means I had to copy others. As a 42 year old, I make it my business to stay outside the box. From Homeless to Handsome was just me playing with how we feel before the cut, homeless. We at times lose confidence as our haircut wares away and can’t wait to get back in that chair. When the service is over and we get that cut we want and it’s done right, there’s nothing you can tell us, as men. We think we’re the most handsome man on earth, despite any insecurities we struggle with in our daily lives.
YV MEDIA: Could you share some success stories or memorable moments from the movement that have touched you deeply?
TM: Just me doing things in the community - at charity events and even something as simple as when someone comes in for a lineup and me offering a full cut for the price of the lineup just to show off my skills. I’ve cut several influencers on their visit to Atlanta also. But, just being able to give back and cut children’s hair at the community events really just make me happy. Children are so innocent and sometimes they can’t get cuts on a consistent basis, which at times lead to being picked on. I know that all too well. I love being the person to help.
YV MEDIA: How can the community get involved in supporting or participating in the "Homeless to Handsome" movement?
TM: It’s easy, SHARE WITH OTHERS!!! In this social media era, so many people are quick to support what the “popular” people are doing and disregard the smaller, more impactful platforms are doing, that are saying and doing things that can really impact lives in a great way. Homeless to Handsome is something that I’d say to my clients as a play on coming in rough and leaving fresh and clean. Now, its something that I want to make a movement to help the homeless, younger people who’s family cant afford cuts, and people transitioning into the world trying to find jobs. We, just have to get it out there.
YV MEDIA: As the founder and owner, how do you balance running a business while ensuring each client receives personalized attention and care?
TM: I operate by appointments only. With that, my clients get my full attention as their service provider. I provide a calm, relaxing, most importantly safe environment. Nothing is more satisfying in my life than being at space in wherever and whatever situation I’m in. So, I offer that to my clients. Often, we can’t get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and I try to provide it for my clients.
YV MEDIA: What are your future plans for Handsome Academy Studio and the "Homeless to Handsome" movement? Are there any exciting projects or expansions on the horizon?
TM: That’s simple. KEEP GOING! I plan on reaching out to as many people, foundations, and neighborhood officials to educate and inform them of my mission to help create some piece of happiness in others to possibly touch them enough to not only embrace peace and happiness, and they pay it forward. The world is sh** right now, and I feel that it’s because people aren’t happy, not at peace, and what’s scary is a lot of us don’t know what it is or how satisfying it feels. If we can’t understand and embrace that, we can make this world a better place, one person at a time.
YV MEDIA: What keeps you motivated daily, and how do you maintain a positive and welcoming atmosphere at your studio?
TM: My son is my motivation. I want him to be the best person he can be and in order for him to be that, I have to be the best person I can be for him to model after. I maintain a positive, welcoming atmosphere by just being observant of how I'm handled when I’m out and patronizing others. I at times use what I like and focus on what I don’t like to use that as learning tools to help ensure my clients are taken care of efficiently.
YV MEDIA: What advice would you give to young aspiring barbers who want to make a difference in their community?
TM: I’d say to them, to be courteous, be respectful, and be clean. Most importantly, don’t do this if you don’t really have the passion because it’ll show in your work and attitude. Once your work and attitude are below standards, your name will be worth nothing. You want your name to hold a certain value, that value should be greater than the service you provide.
Founder & Owner of Handsome Academy Studio
Instagram: @handsomeacademystudio
Services Provided: Men cut, Kids Cut, Women Cut, House Calls, Post Mortem (Funeral) Cuts & more.
Comments