Photo of Bongiwe Tshiqi

5 minutes with Africa International Hair Extravaganza founder, Fatima Cele

We chat to the founder of the Africa International Hair Extravaganza about the 2016 African Hair Awards.

By: Fundiswa Nkwanyana

1.I started the African Hair Awards because I wanted to celebrate the African hair industry.

The aim of the awards is to give recognition to key players by recognising brands and individuals within the industry. I also want to promote ethical business practices for ethnic hair.

See also: Want your hair to grow? These 2 hair masks that you can make easily at home will do just that

2. Many people do not understand African hair and products.

The African hair industry is not regulated, yet it contributes billions towards the economy. But, there is a lot of misconception about African hair. By hosting such events, we aim to broaden our understanding of the industry and products. African hair is diverse and can be styled or worn in many different ways.

3. One day I would like to host the African Hair Awards across the continent.

The African hair industry is booming, and I want to start increasing consumer awareness across the continent. I also want to promote love and acceptance of ethnic hair by sharing information.

4. The 2016 African Hair Awards will take place on the 12 November.

The voting lines are open, and people can start voting for the nominees in the different categories. We will also have a hair extravaganza pop-up expo on the same day. The venue will be announced soon.

 

The village and the villager: How to participate in community

“The price of community is inconvenience.” That famous phrase is entering people’s vocabulary as many start to pursue community. Also see: The economics of dating: Is it hard to find love or just expensive? In the digital age where isolation and ‘cut-off’ culture are promoted, many are intentionally starting to seek out community, and yet a […]

Read more...

LGBTQ+ representation in South African TV and film with Sandulela Asanda

South African television and film have undergone a profound evolution over the past few years, moving away from flat caricatures toward increasingly complex, multifaceted storytelling. Also see: FRAMING QUEER GIRLHOOD: SANDULELA ASANDA ON DIRECTING MZANSI’S BOLD NEW FILM ‘BLACK BURNS FAST’ For decades, local screens frequently relegated LGBTQ+ characters to narrow tropes, most notably as […]

Read more...

How to dress effortlessly for every season

Achieving an effortless wardrobe that transitions seamlessly across changing months often feels like an elusive art form. Yet, according to psychological research and fashion design experts, true effortless style is not about owning endless rows of fast-fashion trends. Also see: BEST COLOURS TO WEAR FOR EACH SEASON Instead, it is an intentional, science-backed practice that […]

Read more...