WATCH: Cutting a swathe through addiction

Euston Lemmetjies (30) in the south of Johannesburg is a self-confessed former drug user and dealer who has managed to complete an about-turn and succeed in turning his life around, Westside Eldos reports.

Co-owner of the popular Legends Barbershop at the Crystal Mall in Extension Six, his changing fortunes have forced him to take a hard look at the Eldorado Park community.

Drug abuse has become rife among the youth and crime is on the increase.

Lemmetjies and partner Sheldon Thatchell (28) have decided to join forces with community leaders such as Cheryl Pillay in the fight against substance abuse through their academy.

Legends Barbershop has grown to include shops in Soweto, Florida and Eldorado Park, with a sixth one planned in Pretoria.

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This growth has not deterred the two from entering the fray and contributing positively to the community.

Lemmetjies said: “We currently employ nine interns and use three per shop. They are trained at the Extension Six branch from 10am to 12pm each day and we teach them customer service skills and how to develop an entrepreneurial spirit by running a business and managing staff in a practical environment.”

According to Lemmetjies, they have managed to secure a property in Walkerville, which they hope to use as an aftercare programme for substance-dependent people.

He adds: “We are looking to attract youths between the ages of 18 to 23 who display a willingness to learn and have a reliable, honest character.”

Legends Barbershop is carving a niche for itself in the grooming business and boasts a host of celebrities among its clients.

It is in need of containers and equipment to fund the latest community-building venture.

Potential sponsors can contact Euston Lemmetjies on 073 767 7332 for more information.

Watch Kwesta get a hair cut:

– Caxton News Service

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