“They’re the sweetest people”
A digital marketer and barber for almost 10 years, user @aidanjloo, from Singapore, has been sharing videos of him offering free haircuts to people on the street.
A recent video of that nature highlights him offering free haircuts to migrant workers — a move he has made previously, as well.
On Instagram, he mentioned that he “Met the most humble, hardworking and thankful team of boys in a shipyard in Tuas!”
The video starts off simply, with Aidan setting up a chair, a barber cape, and the time of commencement of a heartwarming scene about to unfold labelled on the video.
One handed Aidan a cold drink.
The workers were all hugs and smiles, examining their fresh cuts.
After nine haircuts, one worker requested a final cut, then broke into a grin for the camera. It was a genuine moment that touched viewers.
For most of the two hours he was there, Aidan gave haircuts to 10 migrant workers.
Years of Barbering, and a Heart of Gold
Scrolling through Aidan’s page reveals similar videos: one where he offers a student a haircut.
Another where a migrant worker wants a trim but hesitates because he doesn’t want to slack off during work hours.
When asked to introduce himself, Aidan kept it simple:
“I’m Aidan — a digital marketer and a barber for almost 10 years.”
He explained that his journey began with something small:
“I’ve loved receiving haircuts since I was a teen. Eventually, I got the chance to do an apprenticeship at a shop my friend owned.”
What Inspired Him to Cut Hair for Free
For Aidan, the idea of using his trade for something good came naturally.
“I wanted to use my barbering skills for good. I didn’t have a shop or the time to commit to one, so this was the next best thing.”
His videos were inspired by popular US barber and content creator VicBlends, whom he has “always credited” in his posts.
How the Tuas Video Almost Didn’t Happen
Interestingly, the viral shipyard video nearly did not see the light of day.
“I almost didn’t post it,” he admitted.
He had been invited by a shipyard owner in Tuas to give the workers haircuts, but he wasn’t sure how chaotic filming would be. In the end, the workers’ warmth made the experience unexpectedly meaningful.
“They ended up being so friendly and accommodating that it turned into a really sweet video.”
Street Cuts: Not actors, Just Strangers
Aidan clarified that his earlier street-cut videos were entirely real.
“People thought the guys were actors,” he said, “but no — I really go around asking strangers if they want a haircut.”
Not everyone says yes.
“I get a lot of rejections, but I love blessing people who need it or just need a good chat.”
Memorable Experiences that Forever Stay
His experiences with migrant workers, in particular, have stayed close to his heart.
“They’re the sweetest people. I’ve never received so many hugs and words of encouragement.”
He added that despite the simplicity of the gesture, the workers never took it lightly:
“It may just be a haircut, but I genuinely believe it made their day.”
One moment remains with him:
“Hearing how grateful they are, and how they refuse to complain about life here. They’re so aware of their privilege to work in Singapore and shared how much tougher things are back home.”
Francesco’s Barber Club — and the Story Behind it
Beyond the videos, Aidan also founded Francesco’s Barber Club, a social initiative with a deeply personal backstory.
He explained that it was named after Pope Francis, whose visit to Singapore in 2024 left a profound impact on him.
“He left an impression on me about giving his life to serve the poor and the needy and when he died it just made me realise how short this life is and it got me thinking about what God’s plans were for me.”
Aidan believes the late Pope still inspires him:
“Even though Pope Francis was so far away from me when I went for his Papal mass in 2024, I somehow believe he is praying for me and believing in me and so I dedicated this social cause to him.”
The movement carries Pope Francis’ words as its motto:
“To change the world, we must do good to those who can never repay us.”
What This Journey Taught Him
For Aidan, this experience reinforced something he has always believed:
“We all have gifts — and we can only change the world when we choose to be who we were made to be.”
And in his case, that gift is a pair of clippers, a few minutes of time, and the willingness to make someone’s day a little lighter.
Keep up with Aidan’s work on his socials; Instagram & Tiktok
Support Francesco’s Barber Club here!
Watch the video here:
@aidanjloo never met a group of sweeter, kinder and hardworking group of men 🙏 #freehaircuts #love #sgtiktok #fyp
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
Bread, Tradition, and Roots: How a Singaporean Baker Found Belonging in France
The Plate is Empty: The Heartbreak and Aspirations of an F&B Entrepreneur
Ah Ma’s Morning at the Wet Market: A Reminder to Slow Down and Savour Tradition
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
