A unique social enterprise in Dublin which blends hairstyling and barbering training with wellbeing activities is going from strength to strength.
Hair Together in the heart of Ballymun teaches young people salon skills alongside wellness and self-development programmes.
Founded by local stylist Eileen McHugh in 2019, its goal is to empower individuals to find new pathways to education and employment.
Workshops and programmes are supported by a trading-for-impact salon which was opened earlier this year.
Ms McHugh says hairdressing gave her the professional and personal skills to take her life in positive direction after struggling with addiction.
Eileen McHugh founded Hair Together in 2019
A recipient of a 2026 Dublin Lord Mayor’s Award, she says she wants young people in her community to gain self-belief and confidence, alongside practical skills.
“You can’t change what’s happening at home for people or what’s happening in their environment, but you can make them stronger and give them the little tools and the belief to grow and chase their dreams,” she said.
Watch our video to see one of Hair Together’s summer workshops in full swing