Hair Show guests

By Tendisai Cromwell

Afros, twists, braids, weaves, locks or curls, when it comes to their hair, black women know that choosing a style that best suits their personality can be challenging, especially when deciding to go natural.

In light of this, the 7^th Annual Toronto Natural Hair & Beauty Show was held this past Sunday celebrating natural beauty.

It was a crowded event, drawing even a sizable number of men as well. The mood was warm and friendly, and with all the entertainment, workshops and vendors, it created a festive atmosphere. Booths lined the area selling arts & crafts, jewelry, clothing, and of course hair products. One such vendor was Fatma Nurmohamed with Henna Sooq, a company that specializes in henna-based hair and skin products. Nurmohamed has seen a growth in interest for products that cater to textured hair.

“There is a huge movement towards going natural and loving yourself and your hair,” Nurmohamed says.

A similar thought was expressed by Anya Grant, founder of Iheartmyhair. She provides hairstyling services, and consultation for young girls and women who wish to go natural. Grant hopes to fight against the myth of ‘good hair vs. bad hair’ that so often plague the confidence of black women.

“The more natural we are is the closer we’ll be to loving ourselves,” Grant says proudly.

Along with the marketplace, there were performances and also a fashion show that provided lively entertainment throughout the day. Workshops were also conducted to facilitate discussions ranging from styling tips to image branding. Often it seemed there were more bodies than seats, indicating the popularity of these sessions.

 

These types of events are especially important for black women as they create a forum for both celebrating and empowering each other. For many, their relationship with their hair is a long and arduous journey, fraught with issues of self-esteem and perceptions of beauty. Raven Gordon, 21, was a first-time attendee who made the choice to go natural a year ago. She sees the need for an event like this as it allows for women of like minds to come together.

“I think it’s really beneficial because you can see all the natural people in your community,” explains Gordon. “We’re all proud to wear our natural hair.”

 

 

 

That sentiment was also shared by the special guest of the event, Kim Coles. A noted Hollywood actress and comedian who has gone through many looks throughout her career, but recently went natural. Coles explains why she personally finds natural hair shows important.

“I want to see myself reflected in my sisters who look like me with hair like mine,” Coles told swaymag.ca. She further mentioned that she doesn’t get to experience shows like this in LA.

In fact, the Toronto Natural Hair & Beauty Show is Canada’s only major event of its kind for people of African descent. The one-day event is intended to both promote and educate the public on natural beauty. It should be emphasized that despite its name, women of all types of hair were both present and welcomed. More than anything, the event was an opportunity for women who share similar challenges to connect in a positive environment.

For more information, visit: www.torontonaturals.ca

To view and purchase Henna Sooq products, visit: www.hennasooq.com

Iheartmyhair’s website is currently under construction. Visit the Facebook page for more information: www.facebook.com/iheartmyhair?sk=info

More photos from Sunday’s event

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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