He said he never expected to be where he was today after being so close to giving it all up when his brother, Someh, passed away.
"It is just a blessing in itself that I have been able to take my gift to the next level. I just want to thank my friend who taught me and want to make the most of my opportunities."
Mr Oli was first handed the clippers in the Hastings Boys' High School changing rooms by friend, John Whiunui, who has also passed away.
He decided to use the art of barbering to keep Mr Whiunui and his brother's legacy alive.
"I just want to make them proud and do well for them as when I do people's hair I feel connected to them."
Mr Oli said while getting his business off the ground he has been working on a national barbering certificate by NZ Hair and Beauty Industry Training Organisation which has been tough financially.
The passionate barber said if he complied with the standards and had enough money to finish it he should be able to get the certificate before the competition starts.
This would mean he could compete in the master's section, which is the highest category and includes some of New Zealand's best barbers.
"I have one more section to do on my certificate, so if all goes to plan I should be able to go to the competition as a master."
In among his studies and business, Mr Oli still manages to get out on to the streets of Hastings and Napier cutting people's hair or offering tutorials for free.
He said this was an important part of what he does as it made him remember why, where and how it all started.
"Cutting people's hair on the street takes me back down to earth and allows me to stay grounded. I am just happy I can use my gift to make others feel good."
Looking ahead to the competition Mr Oli hoped for better luck than last year after his new clippers broke two days before he was due to be in Auckland.
The repair was unable to be completed in time so he went to BarberCraft with a pair of broken clippers.
"Luckily, my friend from Christchurch gave me a pair and I ended up winning with them so it was like I won on his behalf. It was very cool."
The premiere barbering event runs in Auckland from May 20-21 and if anyone wants to assist Mr Oli financially, contact him via email at somehztouchbarbers@gmail.com.