Single dad completes barbering course, plans to mentor struggling teenagers
Zachary Cooper completed his barbering qualification with Parent Pathways help and now plans to mentor teens through his Baseline program.
Zachary Cooper was juggling two young children, rent and daycare fees while studying to become a barber in Ballarat. The 27-year-old nearly gave up.
He wasn't sure he could balance everything. Parent Pathways gave him practical help.
This included barbering tools and attending industry events. Regular mentoring helped him set achievable goals.
Two years later, Cooper completed his barbering qualification. He started working from home as a barber.
He's now developing Baseline, a mentoring program. It uses barbering to connect with teenagers.
These teens struggle with confidence and mental health. Cooper said reaching out for help was the biggest thing he learned.
- 27 years old
- Cooper's age
- Ballarat
- Location
- 2 years
- Time to complete qualification
- about 350 families
- Support program families
Why it mattersSupport programs can turn struggling parents into skilled workers and community givers when they provide practical help beyond just cash.
AustraliaBallarat and other regional areas have Parent Pathways helping hundreds of families access training and work, with mentors supporting parents across Maryborough, Beaufort and Geelong.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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