Gum Cruz’s mission to uplift the barbering industry in the Philippines began with a small but powerful moment—a tall, skinny boy walked into his barbershop. What was it about that moment that changed everything Gum thought he knew about success? Through his story, discover how your own unique skills can open the door to a mission far bigger than yourself.Gum Cruz, A Barber, Barbershop Owner, and the First Filipino Southeast Asia Barbering Educator.A graduate of Hotel and Restaurant Management, Gum Cruz began his career not in the hospitality industry but as a banker. While in the corporate world, he started two small businesses—eventually leaving banking to build a brick-and-mortar for them. That shop would unexpectedly evolve into a barbershop.What started as business became passion. He picked up the clippers, became a barber, and pursued mastery—training in two top UK barbering academies. His dedication led him to become the first Filipino Southeast Asia barbering educator, now on a mission to uplift the Philippine barbering industry.Along the way, he fell in love with public speaking. Today, he uses both the blade and the stage to inspire transformation. His unorthodox path shaped who he is—and through it, he aims to empower others to chase purpose over predictability. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx