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Wil Dort

Wil Dort on Becoming Local

part of a series on Local (lo·cal) | Resident/Native

34:25

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A powerful story about second chances, belonging, and building something that gives back.

Wil Dort shares a deeply personal story of resilience, identity, and transformation. From arriving in Fargo from Haiti to becoming one of the region’s most recognized barbers and entrepreneurs, Wil reflects on what it means to become local- not just by living somewhere, but by investing in people, earning trust, and creating spaces that matter.

About the speaker

Immigrating from Haiti in 1997, Wil is known as North Dakota’s “First Black Barber.” He peddled a purple bike from a Cass County jail cell to Moler Barber College in downtown Fargo in 2006. Sheer motivation, dedication, and faith instilled in Wil by the Jail Chaplains, he has conquered the odds of going from Fargo’s Most Wanted to one of Fargo’s most successful entrepreneurs.

Wil, his brothers AJ and Louima, along with two other owners serve the Fargo / Moorhead community with unending passion. We aren't your typical barbershop or salon and don't aspire to be. Once you visit us, you'll understand why people drive from all areas of the tri-state region to sit in our chairs.

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