Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1511260
N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 53 Success often emerges from adversity, and few stories illustrate this better than that of Lorenzo Orozco, a determined barber from the Rio Grande Valley who faced numerous and seemingly insurmountable hurdles on his path to success. Orozco shares invaluable insights from his journey to encourage barbers and small business owners who may be struggling to build their businesses, serving as an inspiring example of how individuals can conquer adversity and achieve their dreams in any field— even when the odds are stacked against them. A HUMBLE BEGINNING Orozco spent his early years in Texas's Rio Grande Valley, which presented him with an uncertain future since the Valley is known for its economic A story of one barber's hardships and how you too can achieve anything by Lisa Bakewell challenges. He was, however, drawn to the sense of community he felt when visiting the local barbershop with his grandfather during his childhood. It was there that Orozco witnessed the art of traditional barbering, an experience that left an indelible mark on him. "I've been going to the barbershop since I was a kid. I was super intrigued with the sense of the community," he says. "I was able to catch some of that old-school barbering as it was starting to die out." One day, while browsing the aisles of a department store, Orozco spotted a pair of clippers and impulsively asked his father to purchase them. Little did he know, that moment would mark the beginning of a lifelong passion for barbering. & FACING ADVERSITY FINDING SUCCESS