Daniel Liao’s Journey: Haircuts, Road Trips, and a Heart Full of Giving

Daniel Liao, a passionate hairstylist and co-owner of Pretty Dan Good Salon and Academy in Bengaluru, has taken the art of hairstyling beyond the confines of his salon. What began as casual content creation has blossomed into a purpose-driven mission. His journey has seen him combine his love for hairstyling, travel, and charity to bring change to communities across India and even beyond borders.

Let’s look closer at Dan’s adventures, charitable initiatives, and how he’s using his skills to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Content Creator with a Purpose

Dan started making fun, spontaneous videos without sticking to a particular genre. Over time, his content became more meaningful as he began creating videos to support charitable causes. His social media account prettydangoodadventures became a community. One of his most impactful reels announced that he was offering haircuts for charity to raise funds for NGOs. Dan personally donated all the proceeds to many organisations, turning his hairstyling skills and content into a tool for change.

During his mission at Sikkim Himalayan Academy, Dan brought together bikers from two clubs and students from Eklavya Residential School in Gangyap to create an inspiring and memorable event. The talented choir team from Eklavya delivered a beautiful performance, while their 13-time champion girls’ basketball team joined in to motivate and uplift the young students at SHA. This gathering was yet another example of how Dan continues to connect communities and foster positive change wherever he goes.

A Journey of Travel, Haircuts, and Community Love

Dan didn’t stop at haircuts. He started travel vlogging adventures, exploring different places by bike and car. One of his most impressive journeys was a trip from Bengaluru to Nepal in his Jimny, where he met various communities and brought smiles to countless faces.

Dan shared a heartwarming update: I’m grateful for the warm welcome in Gurgaon! I enjoyed cutting hair, raising funds, and soaking up the hospitality. Thanks to everyone for the incredible support, delicious food, and enriching conversations!

Adventure for Charity: The Solo Overlanding Expedition

On February 25, 2024, Dan began a solo overlanding journey to raise funds and awareness for various causes.

• Haircare Talks: Dan talked about hair and scalp care, including curly hair methods that have helped many.
• Haircuts for a Cause: He offered to cut hair in different cities, with all proceeds going towards charity. He’s making new friends and building a community.
• Local Experiences: Dan sought local stays and recommendations on places to visit, eat, and explore during his journey through the people/groups he met.

Making a Difference in the Northeast: Arunachal Pradesh and Assam

Daniel Liao’s journey through Arunachal Pradesh and Assam was magical. He attended the vibrant Ziro Festival and visited Kaziranga National Park, where he raised funds by cutting hair and donated the proceeds to support the indigenous community.

At Ziro Valley, he even had a special appointment with a client from Bengaluru, who couldn’t get an appointment in the city but managed to meet Dan at the festival.

After this, Dan met Divya, a volunteer teaching children about computers in a remote village. The children lacked access to technology and learned about computers by drawing on paper and using blackboards.

Moved by their situation, Dan reached out to his friends, clients, and followers. The response was overwhelming; within weeks, the children could attend their and their school’s first-ever computer classes in over 20 years. “The joy on their faces was indescribable,” Dan shared, thanking everyone who donated PCs/laptops and supported the cause.

Teaching and Supporting Kids in West Sikkim

Daniel Liao’s mission took him to West Sikkim, where he taught English and self-defence to underprivileged children at the Sikkim Himalayan Academy, a non-profit school in Buriakhop. This journey held a special place in his heart, as he had been visiting and supporting the school for four years.

He has invited people to contribute in the following ways:

• Volunteering: Join him in teaching and mentoring the children.
• Donating Essentials: Help provide clothes, laptops, or other necessary items.
• Sponsoring Meals: Ensure the children have access to nutritious food.
• Fueling the Journey: Help Dan continue his mission by sponsoring fuel for his Suzuki Jimny, which he’s driving from Bengaluru to Sikkim.

Dan’s journey is more than just a road trip.

Daniel Liao is on a life-changing mission fueled by kindness, passion, and the desire to give back. From traveling, always exploring, meeting new people, cutting hair, and bringing technology to remote villages, Dan creates a positive ripple effect through his social media, prettydangoodadventures. He continues his adventure and remains committed to spreading love, hope, and smiles.