Professional Women with Natural Hair....We Want to Hear from You...
When I told my peers I was going to get Sisterlocks they were excited for me and supported my decision but some made sure to let me know they could never do it because natural hairstyles are not accepted in the professional world. Sure, it hurt my feelings to hear my friends say they thought my choice was unprofessional but it did not make me question my decision.
I remember walking to the gym on day, reflecting on what we do as black women to fit into a professional environment. For many of us, it means we cannot wear our hair the way it naturally grows out of the scalp. Then I realized many of us do not even consider the fact we feel we have to chemically alter our natural hair to be considered professional. This began to bother me on another level as I tried to think of another race of people with the same dilemma but could not.
Although, I have only had Sisterlocks since March, 2010, I have been natural for 10 years working in a professional environment and can say most of my experiences have been very positive. However, natural hair has been in the news recently as the reason for disqualifying candidates for employment at Six Flags. Additionally it was not too long ago when a Glamour magazine staffer told a group of female lawyers that natural hair was not suited for a corporate environment. Given these cases, I understand why choosing to go natural could pose a legitimate concern for professional women.
Since living in the Bay Area, I have been blessed to see many women of color wearing their natural crowns in the corporate environment. Additionally, top executives, Ursula Burns, the first black female CEO at Xerox and Constance White, Style Director at Ebay are not afraid of showing their natural beauty to the world and certainly did not let the hair dilemma stand in their way!
We know there are more natural, professional women out there and we want to hear from you. Take pictures of your natural, professional style and be featured as one of our Naturally Professional, movers and shakers. We are not alone out there so let's show all those in doubt that our hair is not only beautiful but women with natural hair are successful in professional environments.
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Rahkia:
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I am so excited to introduce our next natural professional: Melissa. Melissa is an entrepreneur who owns a financial planning firm, www.melissalgeorge.com .
Please join me in welcoming Melissa to Crown and Temple as our next Naturally Professional Feature.
CT
How long have you been natural?
Melissa
My journey began in February 2010. I loc’d my hair in May 2010.
CT
What made you decide to wear your hair in a natural style?
Melissa
I had been thinking about it for a year or 2, but needed to educate myself as to all the options for wearing natural hair, upkeep, costs, etc.. I was tired of putting a chemical on my skin, my hairdresser informed me e was moving out of the country and I didn’t want to go through the process of trying to find someone who could do my hair well.
CT
How do you wear your hair?
Melissa
Locs. In fact, I have extensions called Bornu locs. I know many women with long hair are concerned about having to do the ‘BIG chop & start from scratch, but Bornu (my loctician) has developed a shortcut for those who don’t want to start from scratch. Visit www.bornu.com and schedule a consultation.
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What kind of work do you do?
Melissa
I own & operate a financial planning firm.
CT
What kinds of feedback do you receive about your hair while working?
Melissa
Not a day has gone by that I have not gotten a glowing compliment about my locked hair. I have been well received.
CT
Have you encountered any negative experiences working with natural hair? If so, please share your experience?
Melissa
Recently on Facebook, one of my Caucasian high school classmates commented on how beautiful one of my pictures was and my hair is loc’d in the photo. Shortly thereafter, she made a negative comment about loc’d hair and why would anyone want to have their hair like that or something. Before I could even reply, several of my friends ‘educated’ her why people choose to loc their hair, etc. My bff also shared with her how politically incorrect her comment was and by the time I got to her page, everything was deleted. I realize many people are just ignorant, but in the 6 months I have now been loc’d, this was the only negative comment I’ve heard and it wasn’t directed at me personally. I continue to receive GLOWING comments about my hair. It’s real esteem booster!
CT
How do you deal with any negative comments about natural hair?
Melissa
I haven’t had any yet. I will say that I have had a lot of people to inquire about why I transitioned to locs and the process in general. I suppose based on my long, flowing curls in the past, most people would’ve bet money that I would NEVER go natural. Now I find that more of my friends who are also in the corporate arena are looking to me for information and education as they, too, contemplate going natural or locking their hair.
CT
What advice would you give to women who wish to transition to natural hair while maintaining a professional career?
Melissa
Well, India Arie said it best. “I am not my hair”; however, my hair IS an extension of who I am and, to a large extent, my values. I would advise other women to do your homework first. There are many misconceptions about natural hair and the care/maintenance of it. When doing my research, I read a lot in books and on the web and then I talked to sisters with natural hair, locs, Sisterlocks, etc. until I figured out what I wanted and then I went for a consult with my current loctician. I saw his work and then spent an hour discussing my hair (grade/texture, style options, maintenance, etc.). Going natural is about appreciating the hair that God has given you and yourself as a whole. It is a liberating experience that I wish I had done years ago. I absolutely LOVE my hair.
CT
Please feel free to add additional comments.
Melissa
Melissa L. George & Associates is a state registered investment advisory firm specializing in tax-free retirement planning, executive compensation and estate/trust funding. Please visit us at www.melissalgeorge.com
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I am so excited to introduce Michelle, our next feature in the Naturally Professional series. Not only is Michelle rocking her beautiful natural hair in the corporate world with State Farm, she is an entrepreneur and the co-owner of M.A.J.E.S.T.I.C. fitness.
This interview is a must read. Michelle opens up about learning how to be comfortable with her natural texture, a decision we all have or will face at some point or another.
Please join me in welcoming Michelle to Crown and Temple as our next Naturally Professional Feature.
CT
How long have you been natural?
Michelle
Since July 2009
CT
What made you decide to wear your hair in a natural style?
Michelle
I have worn braids off and on, I tried weaves, wigs, the whole nine! And of course, I wore my hair relaxed! I was also searching for a new look and after wearing my hair in one style for a period of time, I tend to get bored. I always resorted to braids, however, because I exercise a lot. Braids were always easiest to deal with. With respect to the full transition, I have always been intrigued with and admired women who were bold and confident enough to wear their hair so, being tired of my braids, I said, why not? At the time 95% of my hair was virgin and I refused to put one more ounce of chemical in it…I got a 2 strand twist and never looked back!
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How do you wear your hair?
Michelle
I primarily wear my hair in a two strand twist. It gives me a bunch of versatility. Often, people think I have locs in my hair. On occasion, I will take the twists out and wear it loose. Recently, I started shampooing my hair and loosely coiling the hair – this also gives a different look and represented me stepping out again and being comfortable with my texture of hair!
CT
I can remember that feeling of getting comfortable with my own texture without weaves or braids. Can you describe that feeling or process?
Michelle
Yes, I remember staring in the mirror a lot – first in disbelief that I finally “did it,” and a slightly higher level of self-confidence. I began to look more closely at other women and their natural styles, too. I was so accustomed to always having my hair straightened, or longer, that I never knew what my natural texture was and how to make it work. I was afraid of my texture, afraid of it being kinky, and afraid of it being “shorter” and less manageable. The more I played with my hair, I realized the versatility of my natural hair – be it in twists or an afro. And frankly, it probably took 7 long months before I pinned all of my hair up or drastically changed my style. It took 10 months before I ventured into the afro! I can say now after 15 months of natural hair – I finally get it!
CT
What are some of your favorite products?
Michelle
I use products by Miss Jessie’s. Specifically, the Baby Buttercreme; it provides great moisture to my hair and doesn’t compromise the twist. I actually believe it accentuates the twist. I also use the company’s Curly Pudding when I coil my hair or wear a loose afro – this product accentuates my normal curl pattern. Otherwise, for detangling purposes, I use good ole Infusium conditioner.
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What kind of work do you do?
Michelle
I am a recruiter with State Farm. I’ve been with the company for 11 years. I work in and around New York City, so, I certainly am in a location that experiences diversity in many different ways.
I also co-own a fitness business called, M.A.J.E.S.T.I.C.
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| Michelle And Jackqulyn |
CT
You went natural in 2009; did you transition to natural hair while working at State Farm? If so, please describe how you felt at the time?
Michelle
I did transition while at State Farm; I’ve been with the company for 11 years, so I felt OK about transitioning into this type of style and I’ve always changed my hairstyles. I suppose my biggest thought was, ‘OK – how do I explain this style to people?!’ Certainly, once I wore the twists, so many people complimented the look and assumed my hair was cut! While I agreed my hair was cute (LOL), I had no idea so many would embrace it – and that was across gender and cultural lines.
CT
Going back to your other business; I love the website and have also been interested in urban fitness and nutrition, please tell us a little more about your business and what makes it unique?
Michelle
Our business was founded in 2005, out of a season of fasting and praying, and of course, our passion for fitness. M.A.J.E.S.T.I.C. is the acronym for: Michelle And Jackqulyn Energizing Sold Together In Christ. Our mission is to promote physical fitness in urban communities via group exercise and personal training. We offer a variety of fitness genres including: Hi-Lo Impact Aerobics, Body Conditioning, Zumba ®, Soul Line Dancing, Cardio Boot Camp, Sassy Senior Aerobics, and African Dance. We offer a lot and can create programs for just about any client – corporate, community, or individual. We love what we do – our sincerity, passion, and knowledge are paramount. We give all we have to the people we are working with – we want to make a difference in helping to combat obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions by educating people about good nutrition, sound exercise principles, and making healthy lifestyle changes. Oh, and we just completed our first fitness DVD “Cardio Jam N’ Tone!”
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What kinds of feedback do you receive about your hair while working?
Michelle
I haven’t had one negative opinion yet (at least no one has stated anything to me). Most people compliment my “haircut!” I did throw a dash of color in my hair in April – so folks loved that, too! Very, very positive feedback from people with MANY different ethnic backgrounds!
CT
Have you encountered any negative experiences working with natural hair? If so, please share your experience?
Michelle
None
CT
How do you deal with any negative comments about natural hair?
Michelle
I never had to. Many black women with perms complimented me on taking the steps to go natural. I often hear, I want to do it, too, but…
CT
What advice would you give to women who wish to transition to natural hair while maintaining a professional career?
Michelle
I have been embraced with my style change at the workplace. From a hair standpoint – keep it neat, well-maintained, and keep it clean. At times, I have seen men and women with natural hair and it’s a mess. Wearing our hair natural doesn’t give us the green light to not maintain it! That’s the point where natural hair can get a bad rap. Also, be confident about your style – make sure you’re ready for the transition. It took me years until I got the guts – and I am very certain, I will never return to a perm (I will throw a bit of color chemicals in from time – time!!).
CT
Thank you Michelle, I love the advice you gave about transitioning to natural hair and keeping it neat and clean. Please feel free to add additional comments.
Michelle
www.majesticworkout.com. We have a new fitness DVD out – Cardio Jam n’ Tone! Get your copy today!! I can also send photos if interested!
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Please join Crown and Temple in welcoming our first Natural Professional of the series, Rahkia, a Writer who works for a public relations firm. 
CT:
How long have you been natural?
Rahkia:
My last perm was in October 2002. I cut off all the relaxed parts in September 2003. (I asked my roommate to grab a pair of scissors and we just cut until we didn't feel any straightness anymore)
CT:
What made you decide to wear your hair in a natural style?
Rahkia:
I had always loved the way un-processed hair looked... and always hated the routine of going to get my hair done. It was painful, time-consuming and took entirely too much effort to maintain styles. And perm smells awful!
CT:
How do you wear your hair?
Rahkia:
I usually go back and forth between twists and twist-outs. I have flat-ironed my hair twice within the past year, just to see how long it was. Occasionally, I'll rock a large afro puff in an unexpected position (e.g., low and to the side, up and off center, etc). Sometimes when I twist my hair, I'll experiment with updos.
CT:
What kind of work do you do?
Rahkia:
I am a writer. My background is in newspaper journalism and I currently work at a public relations firm in Birmingham, Alabama. I also freelance.
CT:
What kinds of feedback do you receive about your hair while working?
Rahkia:
It's interesting you ask that; I started my career with natural hair and had no problem. No one has ever said anything negative to me about my hair. If anything, it's a conversation starter (i.e., "How long have you been natural? What products do you use?" and the standard "how did you get your hair to do that?") I have heard some comment that natural hair is more accepted in a creative environment such as journalism and public relations. I can't really speak to that.
CT:
Speaking of products, what products do you use?
Rahkia:
Almond oil, olive oil and coconut oil. I LOVE these! They really do a good job of moisturizing and they're not heavy. I also like Carol's Daughter Hair Milk. I discovered the joy of sulfate-free shampoos last year and use the Aubrey Organix line. I also use EcoStyler to define my curls. Those are the basic staples in my hair drawer. For co-washes, I like to use Suave conditioner. Not sure of the line, but they come in green bottles and have almond and Shea Butter. I just tried Herbal Essences Hello Hydration conditioner and I like that too.
CT:
Have you encountered any negative experiences working with natural hair? If so, please share your experience?
Rahkia:
No, not in the workplace. Most of the questionable comments I hear are in social settings. I recall one instance I was at a cookout, talking with a group of other women about natural hair. I was the only natural head there; two others were considering. A young man walked in and plainly announced that he didn't like natural hair. I said, "That's fine," and returned to the conversation I was having.
Living in the Deep South has been interesting. I grew up in the D.C. area, where natural hair isn't a big deal. I've found that in the South, a lot of people still cling to the idea of good hair vs. bad hair. I wasn't familiar with that until I moved to the South. I had one woman tell me, "If I had good hair like yours, I would go natural too." My parents never assigned value to the texture of my hair and I believe that is the reason I find those kinds of statements ridiculous.
CT:
It is interesting you mentioned the comment from the young man. Do you feel it is important for our men to not only accept but support our natural beauty? Why or why not?
Rahkia:
I think it is of the utmost importance for black men to accept and support natural beauty. There are enough negative messages about black women. When these are repeated and reinforced by black men, it's all the more painful. That said, that one experience I mentioned is the only such experience I've had.
CT:
How do you deal with any negative comments about natural hair?
Rahkia:
Give them the Kanye shrug and keep it moving.
CT:
What advice would you give to women who wish to transition to natural hair while maintaining a professional career?
Rahkia:
As I mentioned earlier, some women feel that natural hair is more accepted in certain fields. I don't know if this is the case. But if a woman is concerned about maintaining professionalism while transitioning to natural, she has a lot of styling options to choose from: straw sets, twists, weaves (contrary to popular belief, natural women are not necessarily anti-weave), wigs, etc. I do not recommend flat ironing or hot-combing virgin roots to blend with the rest.
CT:
I have noticed a lot of people have various definitions to define natural. What does being natural mean to you?
Rahkia:
To me being natural means not relaxing your hair. I tend to stay away from all the debates and discussion; it contributes to hair snobbery, lol :-)
