Tinotenda Hove- Thousands of mourners gathered on Wednesday at Mangwandi Cemetery to bid farewell to well-known Masvingo barber and former boxer Tinashe Joshua, whose life left a lasting mark on the city’s social and professional circles.

Affectionately called “Senior” by those who knew him, Joshua was buried following a moving ceremony attended by family members, colleagues, clients and friends who came together to celebrate his life and legacy.

Born on 8 April 1977, Joshua died at his home in the Mbudzi suburb of Masvingo after suffering complications linked to undiagnosed bleeding ulcers. His passing has deeply affected many people in the city’s grooming industry and the wider community, where he was regarded as both a mentor and a trusted friend.

Before the burial, mourners gathered for a church service at a Roman Catholic church in Mucheke, where priests led prayers and reflections on his life.

Speakers described him as a humble man who combined exceptional barbering skills with a warm personality that drew people from all walks of life.

At the graveside, emotions ran high as people shared memories of the man who had become a familiar face to many residents.
One client said their relationship had grown far beyond a simple haircut.

“He belonged to our community. To me he was no longer just a barber. What started as a simple relationship between a barber and a client grew into brotherhood,” the client said.
Relatives of a well-known Masvingo business family also spoke about how deeply Joshua had become part of their lives.

“I don’t know exactly what made him connect so well with many prominent families here in Masvingo. In our household we knew no other scissors besides his. Our children and grandchildren all trusted him with their haircuts. Whenever we needed grooming, the road always led to Shanese Hair Salon for him,” a relative said.

Joshua’s journey began in Shabanie Mine, where he completed his primary education before continuing his studies at Zororai High School. Determined to pursue a practical trade, he later enrolled at Masvingo Polytechnic, where he trained as a barber.

He first practised his craft in Gweru, refining his skills before eventually returning to Masvingo. There, he built a strong reputation while working at Shanese Hair Salon, attracting a wide clientele ranging from ordinary residents to influential community figures.

Outside his barbering career, Joshua was also known in sporting circles as a boxer earlier in his life, a discipline friends say contributed to his resilience and determination.

Colleagues described him as a pillar of the profession who generously shared his knowledge with younger barbers entering the trade.

“Senior is gone. We have lost a mentor and a teacher who guided many of us,” one colleague said at the graveside.

Another workmate remembered him as a patient and generous individual who was always willing to assist others.
“He was always ready to guide young barbers. He never kept knowledge to himself and he treated everyone with respect,” the colleague said.

Clients also spoke of the personal loss they felt following his death. One long-time customer admitted he had struggled to return to another barber since Joshua’s passing.

“As you can see, my beard has grown very long. I haven’t had the courage to sit in another barber’s chair since he passed away. I only trusted his hands,” the client said.

Beyond providing haircuts, Joshua’s barbershop became a meeting place where people gathered to talk, exchange ideas and keep up with community news. In many Zimbabwean communities, barbershops serve as informal social spaces that help strengthen relationships and foster dialogue.

For aspiring barbers in Masvingo, Joshua was a mentor who opened doors by sharing skills and guidance in a profession that continues to offer employment opportunities despite economic challenges.

He is survived by his wife, a teacher at Shakashe Primary School, and four daughters who stood by him during his final days.
As the city mourns his passing, many say the legacy of Tinashe “Senior” Joshua will live on through the lives he touched, the barbers he trained and the friendships that grew around his chair.