Dapper & Distinguished Gentlemen (DDG), a tri-state nonprofit organization serving South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia, dedicated to building character, preserving legacy, and inspiring vision in men of all ages, proudly announces the launch of THE BARBERSHOP, a landmark
community event — in partnership with Grooming Solutions Barbershop — bringing together young men and seasoned gentlemen in one of the most culturally significant spaces in Black American life — the barbershop.
The event will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Grooming Solutions Barbershop, 619 Lady Street, Columbia, SC 29201. Hosted by DDG founder and visionary Deon Generette, THE BAR-BERSHOP will feature free haircuts and structured open dialogue designed to spark honest, meaningful conversations across generations.
More Than a Haircut — A Movement
For ten years, Dapper & Distinguished Gentlemen has understood what research consistently confirms: mentorship and community connection are among the most powerful forces in a young man’s development. THE BARBERSHOP is the embodiment of that mission — a safe, judgment-free environment where older gentlemen share wisdom, young men ask the questions they’ve been afraid to ask, and every voice in the room is valued.
“The barbershop has always been more than a place to get a cut,” said Deon Generette, Founder of Dapper & Distinguished Gentlemen. “It’s a place where men gather, speak freely, and pass down what it means to carry yourself with dignity. That’s exactly what we’re recreating — and we want every young man in Columbia to experience it.”
Event Highlights
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Free professional haircuts provided to attendees
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Open dialogue facilitated by Deon Generette alongside prominent community leaders and celebrity guests
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Intergenerational bonding between young men and experienced gentlemen
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Community networking and resource sharing
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No cost to attend — open to the public
About Dapper & Distinguished Gentlemen
Founded by Deon Generette, Dapper & Distinguished Gentlemen (DDG) is a tristate nonprofit organization — rooted in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia
operating under the core
values of Character, Legacy, and Vision. For over ten years, DDG has been at the forefront of youth development, men’s empowerment, and community enrichment — producing programming that equips men and young men with the tools, mindset, and network to lead
purposeful lives.
From workshops and summits to grassroots events like THE BARBERSHOP, DDG continues to bridge the gap between generations and create spaces where excellence is expected, celebrated, and transferred.
