Lead Instructor
Harold "Barkim" Brown
A Queens native and master barber, Harold is the kind of teacher students remember for the rest of their careers. Known as the best one-armed barber in the world, he turns every doubt into fuel — and pours that energy into the next generation.
- Featured in "The One Armed Barber" — 2024 New York Emmy Award winner (DEI in News)
- Press: New York Post, PIX11, ABC7 Eyewitness News, Barber World TV
- Teaches the full range — fades, tapers, line-ups, razor work, shaves — plus etiquette and professionalism
Instructor
Barry Brown
Barry's story with barbering started long before he ever walked into a classroom. He began cutting hair as a young man and quickly proved what was obvious to anyone who saw him work: barbering was in his blood.
- Years of real barbering experience before ever entering the classroom
- Personally recognized and mentored by Harold "Barkim" Brown
- Teaches from both instinct and craft — a true product of the ABI family
Bilingual Instructor · English & Spanish
Freddie Liciaga
Freddie's journey defines what ABI is all about. Before he ever stood at the front of a classroom, he sat in one — and from day one, he stood out.
- Teaches in English and Spanish — every student feels welcome and understood
- Former standout ABI student turned trusted instructor
- State board exam preparation specialist — known for getting students exam-ready
Bilingual Instructor · English & Spanish
Benny Santamaria
Faced with a real crossroads as a young man, Benny chose the craft. He chose barbering — and he never looked back.
- Impeccable shaving skills and precise scissor work
- ABI's youngest instructor — high-energy, always on the practical floor
- Teaches in English and Spanish — accessible to every learner
Bilingual Instructor · English & Spanish
Richard Cancel
Richard's story begins with family, inspiration, and a pair of clippers. He watched his older brother Mike build an entire life around the craft — and that's the reason Richard ever picked up clippers in the first place.
- Hands-on training from a 30+ year industry veteran (his brother Mike, an ABI graduate)
- Dual expertise in barbering and tattooing — a rare skill set
- Teaches in English and Spanish — driven by purpose, not just career
