On the 21st of May, I spontaneously hopped in my car and visited the Afro Chic event in Amsterdam. This natural hair event was created for naturals to meet, share and discuss. And that is exactly what went down. 

The theme of this (second) Afro Chic edition, was ‘Let’s Talk’, so of course a panel discussion was on the itinerary. What I loved was that the discussions not only touched on the beauty aspect of being natural, but also on subjects like building self esteem and self acceptance. Something that I personally am really passionate about.

During the panel discussion, Roots PR owner and Grazia editor Agnes Hofman talked about her mission to take color diversity in media to another level. Working as a television editor I see this on a day to day basis, so this is a mission that I can only applaud and ‘root’ for. ;-)

Panel members of the day. Agnes Hofman on the mic.

Like in most panel discussions the ladies shed light on their natural hair journeys and how they deal with natural hair and peoples opinions in their daily life. For me, working in a creative environment, has made ‘being natural’ fairly easy. No comments on how I should present myself or style my hair. I only get comments on the fact that I change my hairstyle…A LOT!

I must say that visiting ‘natural hair events’ and talking to fellow naturals made me see that ‘wearing your natural hair’ is not that easy or simple for everybody. And I understand that, but I do want to say that what matters is that YOU love what you do and who you are as a person. You will see that once you really feel that way, the negative comments will slowly diminish and people will accept you for the fabulous person that you are!

It wasn’t all talk at Afro Chic. You could also treat yourself to some nice hair and beauty products. But fashion was also part of this event The fun thing was that during the day models were showing some colorful contemporary African clothing.

Fab hair & fab clothes at Afro Chic. (Check out proud founder Sjamira Roseburg in the back.)

Recently I caught the head wrap bug, so I’ve been rocking those every once in a while. I do not have to tell you that black is my color, but seeing these ladies with these fab colorful pieces was inspiring! Diana Ritfeld (left) also gave a fun mini workshop, so this summer I am ready to step my head wrapping game up!