A native son of Conyers, Georgia, Roosevelt Gilbert’s foray into the world of barbering began at the tender age of 12. Armed with nothing but sheer determination and a pair of clippers, his early attempts at styling his childhood friends’ hair were, by his own cheerful admission, less than stellar. Yet, those humble beginnings laid the foundation for a remarkable career, characterized by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to his craft.
Roosevelt’s journey from those early, experimental haircuts to becoming a celebrated business owner is a testament to his perseverance and talent. After refining his skills and mastering the art of barbering, Roosevelt pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Paine College. He then entered corporate America, for a time, but this was merely a detour on his path to entrepreneurial success. In 2005, with visions of creating a space that reflected his passion for excellence in grooming, Roosevelt opened the doors to his first barbershop at North DeKalb Mall.
The Barber Shop Atlanta Salon, under Roosevelt’s visionary leadership, became more than just a place for haircuts; it evolved into a community hub, a place where individuals from all walks of life could come together, share stories, and leave looking and feeling their best. Yet, Roosevelt’s ambitions reached beyond the confines of traditional settings. After five years of meticulous planning and construction, in 2019, Roosevelt achieved a groundbreaking milestone by opening a second location at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, aptly named The Barber Shop Atlanta Salon. This achievement was not just a personal victory for Roosevelt but a historic moment, as he became the first and only African American entrepreneur to own a barbershop inside the bustling corridors of the world’s busiest airport.
The challenges of establishing a business within an airport were manifold, from stringent regulatory approvals to the logistical hurdles of nighttime construction. Yet, Roosevelt navigated these challenges with the same grace and determination that had characterized his entire career. Today, The Barber Shop Atlanta Salon welcomes travelers from around the globe to experience the warmth and expertise that have become synonymous with Roosevelt Gilbert’s name.
His presence in Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport has not only broken barriers but has also paved the way for future entrepreneurs of color to dream big and break ceilings. His journey from a young boy with a pair of clippers in Conyers to a celebrated business owner is a narrative of inspiration, the power of dreams, and the relentless pursuit of those dreams against all odds.