North Columbus barbershop creates space for mentors and youth to build understanding

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A north Columbus barbershop became the setting for an innovative community dialogue Tuesday night, as local mentors gathered to address youth violence by creating a comfortable space for men to discuss their experiences and challenges with young people in the community.

Elite Barbers hosted the event, organized by the nonprofit Community for New Direction, which serves youth ages 13 to 23. The "barbershop talk" brought together young people and adult mentors in an environment designed to encourage openness and vulnerability among men — something organizers said can be difficult to achieve elsewhere.

"When you think of a barbershop, you think of nothing but men," said Donald Suel, who works for Community for New Direction.

"They're afraid to be vulnerable, but you can be