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Winner Story

Gregory Purnell
Image of Greg Purnell in black and white
Greg The Barber offers free haircuts to those in need. Now, he's building a network of barbers to expand services.

For 38 years, Greg “The Barber” Purnell has honed his craft, but for him, cutting hair is much more than just styling—it’s an ancient art form that transforms lives. Raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Greg has become a neighborhood staple, offering haircuts that go beyond aesthetics. He’s a therapist, social worker, accountability partner, and artist, using the power of a haircut to boost confidence and self-worth for anyone who sits in his chair. Whether it’s kids who need a lift or adults struggling with housing instability, Greg’s commitment to his community means he’s often cutting hair for free. His journey started young, but over the years, his belief in the healing power of his work has only grown.

Now, with Look Good, Feel Good, Greg is scaling up his mission. He’s building a network of trusted barbers to partner with community-based organizations and homeless shelters to offer haircare for those in need, completely free of charge. His vision goes beyond just the cuts: Greg is establishing the infrastructure—scheduling, incentives, and covering expenses—that will make this network sustainable. His ultimate goal is to create safe, welcoming spaces where people can feel seen, heard, and transformed. In Greg’s New York, a haircut is more than a service—it’s a symbol of care, empowerment, and community connection.

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