A series featuring gorgeous women who rock their hair nappturally.
Why did you decide to go natural?
My hair was overprocessed, and it was falling out. I never intended to stay natural, I just wanted to give my hair a “rest” from all the damage. This is something that I had been going through since I was about seven-years-old, I have very thick hair, coarse hair, and I was always told that my hair needed the super strength perm. It would become overprocessed and begin to fall out; I would wear a protective style (braids, weaves) [and] my hair would grow back, and I would start the vicious cycle all over again.
One day after removing my weave in preparation to put another one in, I looked in the mirror and said, “Why do you keep doing this?” It was because I thought I had to in order to be beautiful, professional, feminine, acceptable. I didn’t think there was any other way. That day, I decide to wear my natural hair to see what would happen. I went out with my girlfriends that night wearing my Afro. I was pleasantly surprised at the response that I got, especially from the opposite sex: My afro was a man magnet! Lol!
How long did you transition?
Well, I never had a real transition; I just woke up and did it.
What is your favorite style?
A braidout.
Do you have any hair inspirations? And if so, who?
Gosh, so many! The model, Narissa Kamoy, Taasili Maat, T’Keya Crystal Kemyah, Mirelle Long- A- Kong, Patricia “DeeCoily” Gains, and there are soooo many ladies on Nappturality that keep me inspired.
What is the best thing about being natural to you?
FREEDOM! Ever since I was a little girl, there has been so much time and energy spent in trying to keep my hair straight. Now I can do whatever I like without having to worry about sweating my hair out.
Any tips for transitioners and those new to natural?
BE PATIENT and utilize online resources such as Nappturality and Going-Natural. People will make negative comments, remember that most of the time that it’s their own insecurities that they are projecting on to you. Experiment with different styles, hair adornments and headwraps. Enjoy yourself!
Follow Jameelah on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Nappilocs
I am loving her hair style and color!
:O That’s my friend! Hey Jameelah!