Barber Compton says his trims make everyone look good. Photos by Tom Godfrey.
Good-natured barber Jonathan Compton has trimmed so many area residents and their families that he is dubbed the unofficial “Mayor of Mimico.”
Compton owns and has been a main stylist at the popular Elevate Barber Shop, at 2383 Lake Shore Blvd. W., near Superior Avenue, for seven years and is well-known for his good deeds in the community.
BARBER COMPTON takes a pause to reflect on business.
Many residents stop by his salon for a trim or to say hello on their rounds.
The native of St. Lucia, worked for a number of years as a trucker when he arrived in Canada in 1994. He returned to his love of hair cutting and styling, a trade he learned at home. In time he opened his Mimico salon and hasn’t looked back.
“I was spending too much time on the road as a trucker,” Compton says. “I always wanted to own my own business and there was an opportunity.”
He, like many others, are seeing an uptick in business as some COVID-19 guidelines are lifted.
“I have been receiving a lot of support from the community,” Compton explains. “Mimico has been great to me and I am glad that I opened in this neighbourhood.”
COMPTON outside his Elevate Barbershop, in Mimico. He lives in the area and his small shop is busy as more men return to their “long-time barber.”’
“The business and styles have changed over the years,” he notes. “Most people know they will get a great cut here and they always come back.”
He has customers from across the City who have been returning to his chair for years.
Opening a business these days can be a daunting and overwhelming task and he warns enterprising barbers to stay focused.
“Keep your eyes on your dream and don’t let anyone hold you back,” Compton offers.
His salon is comfortable, friendly and provides some good conversations. On this day the music of Jamaica reggae icon Bob Marley is jamming as the Compton’s celebrates the musician’s February 6 birthday.
He can be reached at 647-347-6008. Appointments are not required.