We had the good fortune of connecting with Roemello Vereen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Roemello, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey to honor the legacy of my grandfather, A proud barbershop owner, and to fill a perceived gap in the Atlanta community by empowering more black men to become business owners. I am driven by a passion for cutting hair, and a desire to share my talents with the world.
What should our readers know about your business?
As a black man in America, one must learn to navigate the complex and often-obscure path to success. My life has been beset by numerous tribulations, from time spent in group homes and as a juvenile, to the loss of my football aspirations and subsequent bouts of homelessness and eviction. Despite these hardships, I have gleaned invaluable lessons, foremost among them being the importance of personal accountability and the realization that I alone am responsible for the trajectory of my life. These epiphanies have served as a source of motivation and drive, fueling my passion for pursuing my dreams and establishing my own business, with the ultimate goal of serving as a beacon of hope for others who have faced similar struggles. My brand is predicated on the principle of hustle, and the belief that even in the face of failure, one can learn and persevere towards achieving one’s goals. As the proprietor of Sickokutz, a barbering business that sets itself apart through the fusion of musical artistry and expertly honed grooming techniques, I endeavor to provide my patrons with a truly unparalleled experience. I am committed to perfecting my craft, investing countless hours in honing my skills to ensure that each customer leaves my establishment with a sense of satisfaction and contentment. My business, Sickokutz, not only offers exceptional grooming services but also imbues an element of spiritual guidance and mentorship within the black community, recognizing that barbershops have historically served as a sanctuary for men to connect and heal. My ultimate goal is to use the gifts that have been bestowed upon me to empower and uplift my customers, not only through their physical appearance but also through spiritual and emotional means.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As a denizen of Atlanta, a metropolis replete with both historical significance and cosmopolitan flair, I can attest to the fact that one’s interest in the city’s offerings will never wane. As an individual who leads a highly social existence, I have had the opportunity to become intimately familiar with the city’s vibrant nightlife. Among the many notable establishments that I would highly recommend, one can find Suite Food, E11even 45, Opium Lounge, Buckhead Bars, Tiger Tiger, and Koo Koo Room, to name but a few. Similarly, for those seeking culinary delights, I would highly recommend Café Bourbon St, New Orleans Creole Cuisine, Folk Art, Escobars, and Teranga as must-visit dining destinations. Other exquisite venues for a leisurely experience include Ponce City Market, Château Élan, The Atlanta Beltline, Tyler Perry Studios, Cloverland Ranch, and Beat The Bomb Atlanta, to name but a few. The array of options is truly extensive and one’s pursuit of enjoyable diversions is bound to be richly rewarded.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mom, grandfather, brother, and various mentors I have had along the way.
Website: book.thecut.co/sickokutzz
Instagram: @mel_splash & @sickokutz
Facebook: Mel So Lit
Youtube: Mel Splash
Other: Soundcloud: Mel $plash Apple Music: Mel Splash Spotify: Mel Splash TikTok: Splashworld1