As an Australian of the Year Award winner Craig Hollywood is a valued member of the Australian social impact landscape. Through the power of a conversation the value Craig brings to society is of national and global importance.

Not only is he an innovative motivational speaker and businessman with a knack for thinking outside the box, but the work that he puts back into the community has the power to truly inspire.

Craig understands the power of a conversation. And is the Founder of Short Back and Sidewalks. A social impact movement providing free haircuts and conversations with some of Australia’s most vulnerable people.

Having started in a car park in Perth in 2015 Short Back & Sidewalks now operates across the continent and continues to positively impact people’s lives by providing a consistent, judgement free service which helps to break the stigma often attached to those in need.

Having lost a family member who experienced homelessness, Craig set out to find a way to help some of the most at-risk people in our society.

Craig’s story about positively impacting communities through the simple act of giving a free haircut and having a chat is inspiring the next generation of giving across the country and beyond. Initially set up to help members of the community experiencing homelessness, Short Back & Sidewalks has now expanded its reach. It also supports young people at risk, women with lived experience of domestic violence, and remote communities where a haircut isn’t easily accessible.

He believes collaboration is key to any success, but first we must connect with each other on a human level.

Craig is a humble, community leader who thinks differently about how we can change society for the better, together as one. Craig is helping to create positive connections with vulnerable and marginalised community members – ultimately building a stronger and more inclusive community.

An expert collaborator and team builder, he shares stories of the power of positive connections and making a difference by activating our social consciousness. Craig says “My background is not in hairdressing, it’s in civil engineering. So I’m the last person you’d want cutting your hair, but I do know the power of a fresh new cut, a good conversation and how to empower the next generation of giving, one free haircut at a time”.

Craig truly embodies what is good about society, and his openness, humility and determination for more inclusivity is inspiring. Craig acknowledged the positive impact volunteers from the hair industry have on people’s lives who access Short Back and Sidewalks services. “The power of a good look cannot be underestimated. When you look good, you feel good,” said Craig. “And not only does it impact our confidence but also it makes an improvement to our mental health, which is something we often hear about with the people who access the services of Short Back & Sidewalks.”

Not only is Craig an engaging and charismatic motivational speaker who talks from the heart, but his inspirational story and message will leave a lasting impact that will allow you to think differently about the mark we want to leave in this world.