ABOUT US
BIOS OF THE FACULTY MEMBERS
Craig Charles
Craig Charles has almost two decades of professional experience in the barber industry and is the owner of Crown Cutz Academy Johnson City, TN and Bristol, VA. Craig was raised in Boston, MA and graduated from East Tennessee State University with a degree in Mass Communication. His barber career started in 2004 when he opened his barbershop, Craig’s Crown Cutz. With this venture, Craig formulated a plan to open a barber school and his dreams became a reality when Crown Cutz Academy opened in 2017. His first location was in Johnson City and the second location was opened in Bristol a few years later.
Lorenzo Lewis
Lorenzo P. Lewis has a decade of professional experience in behavioral health and founder of The Confess Project, an initiative that confronts the stigma around mental health for men of color, Lorenzo helps people confess their issues to begin to build a better process of living. Born in jail to an incarcerated mother, Lorenzo struggled with depression, anxiety, and anger throughout his youth. At 17, he almost re-entered the system of mass incarceration he had come from. It was then he snapped in and began his journey to wellness. Lorenzo has spoken at numerous venues across the country—from barbershops to universities— exploring.
UPLIFT
HISTORY AND MOTTO
Uplift Barber and Beauty is a partnership between Crown Cutz Academy founder Craig Charles and social entrepreneur Lorenzo Lewis, we believe being a successful barber is more than delivering a fresh cut. Our students graduate with not only the hard skills needed to attract opportunities, but the soft skills required for everyone in the barbershop to thrive.
Our motto, “Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve,” reflects our commitment to not only providing quality training, but also instilling a sense of community service in our students. We believe that our graduates should use their skills to uplift and serve their communities, while also pursuing their passions and achieving their professional goals.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to enhance your skills or someone just starting out in the industry, Uplift Barber and Beauty is here to support you every step of the way. Join us and become a part of a community committed to excellence, service, and upliftment.
