Brandon Barber Mario Andino Crowned Best in Canada

Mario Andino, a barber from Brandon, has been named the Best Barber in Canada, achieving this national title just three years after he first began cutting hair. The recognition came through the prestigious Wahl of Fame’s 2025 Canadian Barber of the Year contest, where Andino triumphed over competitors from across the country.

The contest commenced on Instagram with participants submitting videos showcasing their skills. From numerous entries, only six barbers advanced to the final round, which culminated in a decision made by industry judges. Andino’s strong community support, particularly from his clients and family in Brandon, played a significant role in his success.

Recognition and Opportunities

As the winner, Andino received a trophy, a sponsorship worth $1,000 in barbering tools, and the opportunity to serve as a brand ambassador. Most notably, he secured a fully funded trip to Chicago next year to represent Canada at a global championship, where he will compete against top barbers from 18 countries for the world title.

Reflecting on his rapid rise in the barbering industry, Andino stated, “I never thought I was going to represent the whole country in barbering. I started in my basement during COVID with cheap clippers, giving bad haircuts to friends and family. Now I get to represent Canada on the world stage.”

Joining Andino on the podium were Toronto stylists Diego Lauro, who placed first runner-up, and Ethan Quintela, who finished as second runner-up.

Journey to the Top

Andino emigrated from Honduras to Canada 14 years ago and has lived in Brandon since. Before pursuing a career in barbering, he worked at Maple Leaf Foods. He later enrolled at H&Co Academy, completing a nine-month program before joining Elevate Barbershop in October 2024. Remarkably, within less than a year, Andino has transformed from a novice barber into a national champion.

His achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication, according to Taher Banuga, co-owner of Elevate Barbershop. “He came here straight out of school and has only gotten better and better. He’s hard-working, persistent, and always willing to learn,” Banuga remarked. “He stayed late to make competition videos, pushed himself, and it paid off. To win against barbers with over a decade of experience is huge.”

The announcement of Andino’s victory came in an unforgettable moment; Banuga was cutting Andino’s hair when the winning message was revealed. Both men erupted in celebration right there in the shop.

As he prepares for the global finals in Chicago, Andino acknowledges the challenge ahead. He will compete live against elite barbers from North and South America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Each competitor must bring their own model and deliver their best cut in front of judges.

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. There are amazing barbers out there who inspire me to keep improving,” he said.

Andino’s family in Canada and Honduras expressed immense pride in his accomplishment, actively supporting him by voting and spreading the word about the competition. “My mom, my sister, even family back home — they were all proud and telling their friends to vote for me,” he said.

With a trophy soon to be displayed at his station in the barbershop, Andino is already looking ahead. He intends to participate in more live competitions, including an event in Winnipeg next spring. As he prepares for these challenges, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring barbers and entrepreneurs alike.