Chicago educator and barber Jessie "Kirby" Perez Gil (@kirby_hairartisan) shares what keeps him inspired in his craft.
Courtesy of Jessie "Kirby" Perez Gil
Chicago suburbs-based hair professional Jessie Perez Gil (@kirby_hairartisan) is known for combining artistry, authenticity and leadership in everything he does. As the owner of Artisan Theory Barbershop and Artisan Hair Sodality, Jessie has created spaces where faith, family and community take center stage. A master of all things hair, from precision cutting to fades and beard grooming, he’s also passionate about mentorship and building legacy. As a passionate educator, Jessie has taught countless classes in salons and barbershops to uplift the next generation of professionals and bring real impact to the beauty industry. Jessie brings fire and heart to everything he does. Whether he’s leading a class or playing basketball, one thing’s clear: when you get a hold of Jessie, you get everything he’s got. Here, he shares the five things that continue to fuel his purpose behind the chair and beyond.
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Chicago suburbs-based hair professional Jessie Perez Gil (@kirby_hairartisan) is known for combining artistry, authenticity and leadership in everything he does. As the owner of Artisan Theory Barbershop and Artisan Hair Sodality, Jessie has created spaces where faith, family and community take center stage. A master of all things hair, from precision cutting to fades and beard grooming, he’s also passionate about mentorship and building legacy. As a passionate educator, Jessie has taught countless classes in salons and barbershops to uplift the next generation of professionals and bring real impact to the beauty industry. Jessie brings fire and heart to everything he does. Whether he’s leading a class or playing basketball, one thing’s clear: when you get a hold of Jessie, you get everything he’s got. Here, he shares the five things that continue to fuel his purpose behind the chair and beyond.
1. FAITH
God is first always. My faith is what grounds and sustains me and guides every decision I make. I grew up surrounded by spiritual strength, especially from my grandmother, my angel, who taught me how powerful faith can be in a family. My parents carried that torch and passed it on to me. I strayed at times, but I’ve come full circle now that I have a family of my own. Today, we lead with faith and always put God before any dollar.
Jessie and his wifeCourtesy of Jessie Perez Gel
2. FAMILY
My parents were young immigrants who took the biggest risk of their lives to come to this country and create something better, not just for themselves, but for all of us. Their struggle gave me purpose. Now, as a husband to an incredible woman and father of five, my family is my biggest inspiration. My wife has been by my side through it all — from late nights to major decisions — and her strength is woven into everything I do. My family is the reason I push myself to keep building, teaching and growing. Opening multiple barber shop locations isn’t just about business — it’s about creating a legacy of love and leadership for them.
Jessie, his wife and kidsCourtesy of Jessie Perez Gil
3. PURPOSE THROUGH THE CRAFT
Becoming a barber changed everything for me. I came from nothing — no blueprint, just drive. The struggles were real, but so was the growth. My mentor once told me, “God forgives, but time doesn’t, so live up to your potential.” That quote stuck with me. This craft gave me purpose, and now I’m committed to helping others see the same. You don’t have to come from much to become something great — you just have to stay hungry and humble and use every minute wisely.
"Becoming a barber changed everything for me. I came from nothing — no blueprint, just drive."Courtesy of Jessie Perez Gil
4. COMMUNITY AND COLLABORATION
The relationships I’ve built with clients are the heartbeat of our shops. Those connections helped us grow, open our doors and build something real. We don’t just cut hair, we create safe spaces where people feel seen and welcomed. Community is everything. Whether it’s a quality haircut or someone needing to talk, we’re here to serve, connect and uplift. That’s what it’s always been about.
"We don’t just cut hair, we create safe spaces where people feel seen and welcomed. Community is everything."Courtesy of Jessie Perez Gil
5. UPLIFTING THE NEXT GENERATION
Mentorship is our calling. Over the years, I’ve taught countless classes in salons and barbershops to inspire, challenge and help professionals grow. Education has brought me even closer to the community, and it’s one of the most fulfilling parts of what we do. From my first year in the game to now, I’ve poured into barbers and stylists to help them shift their mindset and see what’s possible. This profession will never die — it evolves. Whether it’s behind the chair, as an educator or a business owner, there are endless ways to grow. And growth isn’t just about business, it’s about helping people win in life with their families, finances and future. That’s what we live for.
"Over the years, I’ve taught countless classes in salons and barbershops to inspire, challenge and help professionals grow."Courtesy of Jessie Perez Gil
