A Bronx-born barber went from cutting hair in the halls of New York City public housing to grooming celebrity athletes in Westchester. News 12 spoke to him about his success story as he cuts his way to the top.

Barber David Marulanda has quite the roster of clients that includes former Knicks superstar Allan Houston, ex-Yankee legend Bernie Williams and the 2021 Major League Soccer champions, the New York City Football Club.

"My hands haven't failed me yet. I think we got the lucky touch," he says.

It's a dream come true for Marulanda. He's big soccer fan since he was a little boy growing up in the Bronx. Now he welcomes NYCFC champion Maxi Moralez into his barber chair at Authentic Hair Studio in White Plains.

From small beginnings to the big time cuts, Marulanda is even traveling with the NYCFC as their personal road barber.

"I have nothing to do with their talent, but I give that extra push for self-esteem because when they look good, they feel good."

Marulanda does more than keep these athletes looking fresh for the limelight. He shaves away all negativities.

"I always try to have a positive attitude, the best energy ever and the greatest vibes because that is contagious."

Marulanda has a wide-ranging list of clients. Not only does he cut the hair of celebrity athletes, but he pays a lot of his success forward. He makes an annual trip to Africa where he cuts the hair of children over there for free.

"Seeing the little bit, they have and how happy they are, that's like a wake-up call."

It's a wake-up call that inspired Marulanda to help build 16 homes in Africa last year, and he wakes up every day grateful for his opportunities.