Norfolk Island Teen Balancing Barbering and Squash with Big Dreams

With support from Mas National, a 16-year-old from Norfolk Island is carving out an impressive path in both barbering and squash. Timi Snell’s journey showcases how tailored mentoring and apprenticeship support can help young Australians pursue their passions, no matter how remote their location.

Mas National Apprenticeship Consultant Kate Gould is overseeing Timi’s apprenticeship, offering both practical support and handling the necessary paperwork. “Timi’s enthusiasm and dedication are truly inspiring,” Kate said. “I have no doubt that her unique background and strong sense of community will help her excel in her career. It’s a privilege to support her as she pursues her dreams.”

Finding Her Passion in Barbering

Timi’s love for barbering started at her school, where she got a taste of the trade through a work experience program. She was hooked from the first cut. “I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did,” she said.

Now, she’s pursuing a Certificate III in Barbering at Wilde Brud, the only barbershop on Norfolk Island, and she’s loving every minute of it. What Timi enjoys most is the interaction with her clients. “Talking to people… I’m really good at it,” she said. But it’s not all about the chat; she’s also learning the nitty-gritty of barbering, from blow drying to the art of a perfect haircut. “People come in and they’re like, ‘Oh, short back and sides, a little bit off the top.’ I’m like, ‘Doesn’t help me at all!'” she said.

Mentorship and Growth at Wilde Brud

Drew Danaher, the owner of Wilde Brud, sees Timi’s potential and is proud to mentor her. “Timi’s a natural,” Drew says. “She’s got a great way with people and a real knack for the craft. It’s a pleasure to see her grow and develop. Her passion for barbering is infectious, and she’s always eager to learn more.”

Drew began his career in 1982 as a hairdressing apprentice and worked in the industry for 11 years, learning barbering informally. He then took a 15-year break to join the Hare Krishna temple in Brisbane, where he studied yoga. In 2017, he returned to barbering and moved to Norfolk Island in 2020, drawn by the island’s slower pace. When his boss decided to sell the barbershop, Drew took over, focusing on both barbering and hairdressing.

He notes that Timi’s background on Norfolk Island has given her a strong sense of community and resilience. “She has a remarkable drive to succeed and balances her studies, work, and sports with ease,” Drew adds.

Drew advises business owners to be patient and set a positive example when mentoring apprentices. “Share your knowledge, put in the extra effort, and don’t be too attached to immediate results, nurturing an apprentice takes time and be satisfied knowing you are assisting someone else, just as you were helped when you were younger. Timi is a perfect example of how investing in young talent can pay off in the long run.”

Success on the Squash Court

When she’s not behind the chair, Timi is on the squash court, where she’s been playing for about four years. Her talent has seen her climb to 5th place in Queensland and 24th in Australia for her age group. She’s represented Norfolk Island in tournaments all over, from Rockhampton to Townsville, and even in Melbourne’s Albert Park.

Timi comes from a sporty family, and she’s tried her hand at various activities, including archery and horse riding. But squash is where she truly shines. “I love the challenge and the thrill of the game,” she adds.

The Importance of Support and Mentoring

Timi believes mentoring support is crucial for apprentices, and will use Mas’s mentoring app in the future. “We are all trying to learn about something we are passionate about and it’s not always going to be easy and smooth sailing so we need some of that support. I have a lot of support around me from family and the community but I know Mas will be there if I need additional support in the future,” she said.

The Australian Government provides financial assistance to Norfolk Island residents completing an Apprenticeship, Traineeship or VET course. Through its partnership with the Queensland Government, it also supports Norfolk Islanders to train or retrain as an apprentice or trainee, with the support of the Queensland Department of Trade, Employment and Training and TAFE Queensland.

With the guidance and support of mentors like Kate Gould from Mas National and Drew Danaher, Timi’s journey is just beginning, and she’s well on her way to achieving her big dreams.