Mario Andino Crowned Best Barber in Canada, Eyes Global Championship

Mario Andino, a stylist from Brandon, has been named the Best Barber in Canada, a remarkable achievement just three years after he first picked up a pair of clippers. His victory in the Wahl of Fame’s 2025 Canadian Barber of the Year contest, which concluded recently, saw him outperforming competitors from across the nation.

The competition began with open video submissions, where barbers showcased their skills using Wahl tools. From numerous entries, six finalists were chosen, with Andino emerging victorious following a public voting phase. He was awarded a trophy, a $1,000 sponsorship for barbering tools, and the title of brand ambassador, along with a fully funded trip to Chicago next year for a global championship featuring winners from 18 countries.

Reflecting on his journey, Andino expressed disbelief at his rapid rise in the barbering world. “I never thought I was going to represent the whole country in barbering,” he stated. His journey began in his basement during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he practiced on friends and family. “I started with cheap clippers, giving bad haircuts,” he recalled, underscoring his humble beginnings.

Andino’s path to success included enrolling at H&Co Academy in Brandon after leaving his previous job at Maple Leaf Foods. After completing a nine-month program, he joined Elevate Barbershop in October 2024. Within just a few months, he transitioned from a rookie to a national champion, showcasing his determination and dedication.

Recognition and Celebration

Andino’s co-owner at Elevate Barbershop, Taher Banuga, praised his hard work and commitment. “He came here straight out of school and has only gotten better and better,” Banuga stated. “To win against barbers with over a decade of experience is huge.”

The announcement of Andino’s win was memorable; it occurred while Banuga was cutting Andino’s hair. Both men celebrated enthusiastically in the shop upon receiving the news, marking the moment with joy and excitement.

The upcoming global finals in Chicago will present a new level of challenge for Andino, who will compete against elite barbers from regions including North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. Each competitor must bring their own model and deliver their best cut live, making the event a significant test of skill.

Despite his recent success, Andino remains humble. “Winning this doesn’t change how I see myself. I’m still at square one, working as hard as before,” he remarked. He acknowledged the presence of many talented barbers who inspire him to keep improving.

The recognition has also fostered pride among his family, both in Canada and in his native Honduras. They rallied support for him during the competition, encouraging friends and family to vote. “My mom, my sister, even family back home — they were all proud,” Andino shared.

With a trophy soon to be displayed at his station in the barbershop, Andino is already looking ahead. Beyond the world competition in Chicago, he plans to participate in more live contests, including one in Winnipeg next spring. His story exemplifies the possibility of rapid growth and achievement in the barbering industry, inspiring others along the way.