Meet the Educators Behind Gents Academy
At Gents Academy, our mission is simple. To deliver the highest standard of private barber education in New Zealand. At the core of this are our two lead educators and co-directors, Henry Brain and Thomas Degg, who bring a combination of global experience, industry credibility, and real barbershop expertise.
Henry Brain — Director, Gents Barbershop & Co-Director, Gents Academy Co
With over 15 years in the hair industry, Henry’s journey began in female salons, where he completed his apprenticeship before transitioning into barbering.
From there, his career has taken him across the world, travelling every continent, immersing himself in different cultures, techniques, and styles that now shape his approach to modern barbering education.
Henry’s experience includes:
- Working alongside global brands such as Hugo Boss and Ralph Lauren
- Performing live stage work and expos, cutting in front of audiences
- Running education courses across various barbershops and hairdressing businesses
- Leading from the front as Director of Gents Barbershop, with two established venues in Queenstown
As co-director of Gents Academy, Henry has helped educate over 150 students across New Zealand from complete beginners entering the industry, through to established barbers and salons looking to refine their craft.
His focus is on real-world application, precision, and building confidence behind the chair.
Thomas Degg — Lead Educator, Gents Academy Co & JRL, Educator
With 5 years in the industry, Thomas has rapidly built a reputation as a high-level barbering educator, specialising in modern cutting techniques and structured education delivery.
Thomas has worked alongside some of the top educators in the world, gaining experience across Europe and Australia, and bringing that international standard back into New Zealand barbering.
He is also:
- A sponsored ambassador and educator for JRL Australia
- Actively teaching across Australasia, delivering intermediate and advanced barbering education
- Known for his technical precision and clear teaching style, making complex skills easy to understand and apply
As co-owner of Gents Academy Co, Thomas has played a key role in educating over 150 students, helping shape the next generation of barbers.
His vision is to position Gents Academy as the leading private barber education platform in New Zealand, combining structure, creativity, and industry relevance.
Building the Future of Barbering
Together, Henry and Thomas combine:
- Real barbershop experience
- Global exposure
- Proven education systems
- A shared vision for raising the standard of barbering in New Zealand
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your craft, Gents Academy is built to provide hands-on, high-level education that translates directly into the real world.
Welcome to Gents Academy.
Where skill meets standard.
