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Through Community we’re building Connections

The Barbershop/Locker Room Talks

are a community initiative aimed at fostering meaningful conversations in the culturally significant settings of barbershops and locker rooms.

The talks address a range of topics including:

education
employment
health
social justice

This initiative extends beyond the traditional walls of the barbershop or locker room to wherever we can create safe spaces for conversation.

Breaking Barriers, Building Community

These talks cover a broad spectrum of topics relevant to high school and collegiate males and females, providing real-world strategies for success:

Academic Success & Persistence
– Strategies for excelling in school and beyond.
Mental Health & Wellness
– Breaking the stigma and prioritizing self-care.
Career Planning & Professional Development
– Preparing for a future of success.
Leadership & Campus Involvement
– Stepping up, making an impact.
Financial Education & Economic Empowerment
– Building generational wealth.
Cultural Identity & Representation
– Embracing and celebrating who we are.
Navigating Racism & Microaggressions
– Overcoming obstacles with confidence.
Preparation for College & Graduate School
– Mapping out the next steps.
Community Engagement & Service
– Giving back and making a difference.
Long-Term Vision & Goal Setting
– Creating a blueprint for success.

Each Barbershop/Locker Room Talk is limited to two hours

Proven Results

Stevie Bracey

"The Barbershop Talks were an incredible experience, creating a space that Black men rarely have—one where we could be raw, unfiltered, and completely honest about what we’re struggling with. Tony Covington did an outstanding job as the facilitator, allowing us to open up in a way that felt both natural and necessary. His enthusiasm for the topic made it clear how much he cared, which helped balance the seriousness of the discussions with an energy that kept everyone engaged.

A setting like a barbershop is the perfect environment for these conversations because it’s familiar, comfortable, and encourages real dialogue. When I first attended as an interest, I immediately saw how powerful it was, and after I crossed, I gained an even deeper appreciation for it. This is something that should be implemented across all colleges—creating spaces like this is crucial for the mental and emotional well-being of Black men. The impact of these discussions goes beyond the room, helping us grow individually and as a community."

Bryce Walker

"Tony Covington’s leadership in the Barbershop Series at UVA has been nothing short of transformative. In a time when genuine spaces for Black men to openly express themselves, connect, and uplift one another are more important than ever, Tony has been the driving force behind creating an environment where vulnerability is met with support and wisdom is exchanged freely.

Through his dedication, the Barbershop Series has become more than just a forum—it’s a brotherhood, a space where real conversations happen, and where Black men on Grounds can find both guidance and camaraderie. Tony’s ability to foster dialogue that is both thought-provoking and empowering has made a lasting impact on our community, giving us the room to reflect, grow, and support one another in ways that extend far beyond the walls of the discussion.

His leadership, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to strengthening the bonds between Black men at UVA have left an undeniable mark. I always appreciate when Tony comes to town to help make this event run, but what makes his impact even greater is the way he equips attendees with the tools and guidance to continue creating these spaces on our own, ensuring that this brotherhood thrives even in his rare absences."