Where are you from and how is the natural scene there?
I'm originally from the great state of Texas. I currently reside in the city of Atlanta. The natural scene in Atlanta is incredible. Never in my life have I seen so many proud black women rock natural hair styles. Afrocentrism is alive and well here.

How long have you been natural and what has your experiences been like
I transitioned for 7 months, but at 5 months did a mini-chop. The big chop came 2 months later. I have been natural for 6 months. At the beginning of being natural I was so scared, because I had never had short hair before. This was a drastic change for me. I didn't know how people would react and feared that I would be viewed as less attractive. I was really proud of myself for going through with it though. I was self conscious at first, and felt a little naked since I no longer had my hair to hide behind.

Did you have any support during your transition?
My family was not supportive and even advised against it. They all asked me if I had gone crazy. They had never seen me without long hair. They asked how I would get jobs and if I wasn't worried that my hair wouldn't grow back.

My friends were split down the middle some were saying, "go for it." The others said they liked my hair already and that I didn't need to change it. Most of the support I got were from the amazing ladies at fotki.com.

Has there been any differences in your life from going natural?
I have a lot more pride in who I am. I didn't see the connection between my skin, nose, and lips until I added my hair to the mix. Now it all makes sense to me. I second guess myself less often. I attract more conscious-minded people. I notice instead of being called home-girl, I am now, "sista." What's not to love about that?

What has been one of the best things about have natural hair in your experience?
I am no longer restricted from salt water, chlorine, and movements that may cause perspiration. I no longer fear the weather. I love my hair, I fell in love the moment I realized what I had been hiding all this time.

 

 

How do you maintain your hair?
I use conditioner to wash my hair every weekend. I clarify with baking soda and warm water every 2 weeks; which is followed by a hot oil/ deep conditioning treatment. I do not color my hair. I love twist outs, and braid outs. I never comb my hair unless it's wet and has conditioner in it (using my Kakakiki Kombrush).

If you were stranded on a deserted island and had to choose 3 things for your hair, what are three things you would have to have for your hair and why?

• Apple cider vinegar - so I could clarify my hair.
• Extra virgin olive oil - so I could attempt deep treatments.
• Shea butter - so I could still do twist outs.
  

What advice would you give someone who was thinking of going natural?
I would tell them to really do their research and to be brave. There is so much misinformation that we are fed on a daily basis about how to take care of OUR hair. Especially within the black community.

*To all my naturals, and those thinking about going natural, WE ARE QUEENS, we gave birth to this world. DO NOT LET ANYONE TELL YOU DIFFERENT.*