MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Gladys Afolayan (Calgary based) is a Afro Texture hair educator with over 20 years of industry experience. She is nationally recognized for her skill and creativity as a braiding and hair colour specialist. A certified and licensed cosmetology instructor and entrepreneur Gladys partnered with the Alberta provincial government to develop Canada’s first accredited Afro-textured hair curriculum to close the gap in the current education. As the founder of Kulture Beauty Collective and the Kulture Institute of Cosmetology, Gladys is passionate about creating inclusive experiences and interactions between stylists and clients from different cultural backgrounds.
Course Content
This course covers: Module 1: Barbering Foundations 1. Introduction to clipper cutting 2. Tools and equipment (clippers, guards, trimmers, razors) 3. Hygiene and safety practices 4. Understanding head shape and hair growth patterns Module 2: Key Barbering Terminology 1. Guideline 2. Graduation 3. Blending 4. Taper 5. Line-up (edge-up) 6. Distribution 7. Growth pattern 8. Freehand slicing Module 3: Clipper Cutting Techniques 1. Clipper-over-comb 2. Guard cutting (length control) 3. Freehand fading and blending 4. Creating uniform and structured shapes Purpose: 1. Achieve precision, speed, and consistency 2. Create clean outlines and balanced haircuts Module 4: Types of Fades Fade Variations: 1. Low Fade – subtle, clean finish 2. Mid Fade – balanced and versatile 3. High Fade – bold, high contrast 4. Bald/Skin Fade – sharp and modern 5. Temple Fade (Brooklyn/Taper Fade) – focused around hairline and neckline Module 5: Fade Execution Process Step-by-Step: 1. Guideline: Establish base line using a longer guard 2. Graduation: Gradually decrease guard size moving upward 3. Blending: Remove harsh lines using clipper-over-comb or guards 4. Refinement: Clean with trimmers for smooth transition 5. Finishing: Style and detail based on client preference Module 6: Line-Up (Edge-Up) Technique 1. Creating sharp, symmetrical hairlines 2. Defining the forehead, temples, and nape 3. Using trimmers and razors for precision 4. Enhancing facial structure through clean edges Module 7: Afro-Textured Barbering Focus 1. Cutting with minimal tension 2. Working with natural curl patterns 3. Avoiding uneven shrinkage 4. Creating clean fades on coily and dense hair Module 8: Blending & Detailing 1. Eliminating visible lines 2. Soft vs sharp blends 3. Precision detailing techniques 4. Achieving a professional finish Learning Format: 1. Structured theory + visual demonstrations 2. Step-by-step barbering breakdowns 3. Hands-on practice sessions 4. Instructor-led corrections and feedback Students will: 1. Perform full fade haircuts 2. Practice guard progression techniques 3. Execute clean line-ups and detailing 4. Work on mannequins and live models 5. Build speed, precision, and confidence
Who This Course Is For
1. Beginners entering barbering 2. Hairstylists expanding into clipper work 3. Students building foundational haircutting skills 4. Professionals refining fade and detailing techniques
About the Course
About Kulture Institute of Cosmetology Kulture Institute delivers structured, inclusive, and industry-aligned education focused on real-world skills. Our programs develop confident, precise, and professional stylists ready for the beauty industry. From guest work to professional, industry-standard career pathways. Kulture Institute of Cosmetology is redefining beauty education in Alberta, Canada. Our courses are meticulously crafted for aspiring professional stylists, beauty entrepreneurs, and individuals seeking structured cosmetology training aligned with real industry standards. Students learn both foundational and advanced hairstyling skills, client consultation, professional responsibility, and technical mastery — preparing them not just to style hair, but to build sustainable careers. In a world where the beauty standard has historically centered Eurocentric hair, Kulture Institute of Cosmetology is intentionally bridging the gap. We are bringing inclusivity, equality, and a truly diverse approach to the beauty industry. We are bringing balance. Our graduates are trained to confidently work with all hair types, while placing strong emphasis on mastering the art, design, science, and technical skill behind Afro-textured hair. We believe excellence means understanding texture in its full spectrum — straight, wavy, curly, coily, and everything in between. In institutions where straight hair has traditionally been the dominant educational focus, Kulture Institute of Cosmetology introduces balance, uniformity, and true industry readiness in a world of diversity. We are not replacing standards. We are expanding them. Our mission is simple: To graduate confident, skilled, and culturally competent professionals who are ready to serve a diverse community with excellence. Join us for a fulfilling and rewarding career path in the world of hairstyling!
Ready to Transform Your Career?
Master the art of clean fades, sharp lines, and professional barbering techniques.
$165.00 / month with 14 day free trial