In a bid to empower Black and brown students, Brandon High School recently hosted a unique salon day where students learned essential hair care skills and enjoyed pampering sessions. The event, organized by Curls for Queens, aimed to support young girls with curly, coily, and kinky hair, especially those whose families may face financial constraints hindering regular salon visits.
Amaya Akear, a junior at Blake High and the youngest hairstylist at the event, shared her personal journey of overcoming bullying by learning to braid her own hair in third grade. Reflecting on the experience, Akear emphasized the importance of self-acceptance and happiness, irrespective of others’ opinions. “I had to realize I’m beautiful no matter what, and that it doesn’t matter what anybody else thinks, as long as I’m happy with myself,” she stated.
The salon day at Brandon High School welcomed 23 girls from elementary and high schools across Hillsborough County. Curls for Queens, beyond its salon day initiatives, also collaborates with schools to introduce a salon voucher program. This program aims to provide complimentary services for girls by partnering with hairstylists and make-up artists. Additionally, the organization conducts workshops for parents who are reentering society after serving time in prison.
By fostering a supportive community and providing essential skills, Curls for Queens not only encourages self-confidence but also addresses financial barriers that may limit access to professional hair care services for Black and brown girls. The initiative at Brandon High School exemplifies a commitment to holistic empowerment and inclusivity within the educational system.
