Budding barber Joel is a cut above after winning category in our coveted Nxt Gen Awards

“For me, cutting hair is an art. Seeing my clients in the chair very happy, it makes me happy as well.” 

These are the words of talented 16-year-old Joel Mbakop whose barbering skills, creativity, and drive led to the Bulwell teenager being named winner of this year’s Youth Creative Excellence Award, which recognises young talents who have contributed to the arts and cultural enrichment of their community through singing, dancing, acting or anything creative. 

This award forms part of our prestigious Nxt Gen Awards which shine a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of young people from across Nottinghamshire. 

Joel, who was nominated for his award by one of his teachers, Jannita Bradshaw, first learned how to cut hair when he was aged just 13. 

While still in Year 11, he has successfully established his own barbering business, working professionally from his home studio and building a strong and growing client base. 

After hearing he had been shortlisted for our award, Joel said: “I feel very proud of myself to have been nominated and to have got this far.

"I want to thank the teacher who nominated me and I appreciate it a lot that she felt I deserved to be put forward for this award. 

“I also want to thank my parents and the barbers who taught me. I would say it’s basically because of them that I’ve managed to get this far.” 

Miss Bradshaw said: “What sets Joel apart is not only his technical skill in barbering, but also his ability to market and develop his craft creatively.

"He has built a positive and engaged following on TikTok, where he showcases his work, promotes his business, and connects confidently with a wider audience. This demonstrates creativity, digital awareness, and maturity well beyond his years. 

“His journey reflects resilience and adaptability. Born in the UK to parents from Cameroon, he spent part of his early childhood living abroad before returning to the UK around the age of seven.

"These experiences have helped shape a young person who is focused, self-motivated, and determined to succeed.

"Despite the demands of running a business, he continues to balance his education alongside his professional ambitions. 

“Joel is a powerful example of how creativity can be transformed into meaningful opportunity. His dedication, independence, and vision make him a highly deserving recipient of the Youth Creative Excellence Award.”