Boys challenge norms with cosmetology training in Maua

Boys at Maua Vocational Training Institute have defied myth and long-held gender stereotypes by enrolling in beauty and cosmetology courses, traditionally perceived as a preserve for girls only.

Speaking in his office on Thursday, the institution’s manager, Duncan Ndegwa, noted that the cosmetology department currently has 75 students, half of whom are boys.

He said that the male trainees have shown remarkable passion, creativity and commitment to the beauty industry, proving that talent and interest know no gender boundaries.

“Cosmetology is a skill like any other. What matters is passion and professionalism,” the manager said, adding that boys have excelled in areas such as hair styling, barbering, skincare, nail and makeup artistry.

He said that the growing acceptance of male beauticians and barbers in the job market has encouraged more boys to pursue the course with confidence.

Ndegwa attributed the shift to changing societal attitudes, exposure to role models in the beauty industry, and the promise of self-employment opportunities after the training.

He noted that many graduates from the department have already opened salons and barber shops, while others found employment in urban centres, contributing to youth empowerment and reduced unemployment.

However, the manager raised concerns over infrastructural and staffing challenges facing the institution and urged the government to construct permanent workshops and increase the number of instructors, particularly in carpentry, masonry and beauty and cosmetology, to match the rising student enrolment.

“With adequate facilities and enough trainers, we can offer quality, hands-on skills that are topnotch in the industry standards,” he said, adding that vocational training remains a pillar in promoting practical skills and economic growth in the country.