Loc Journey With Erica Clark
You may have been warned that you won't get a job, accepted into a school, or just won't be taken seriously. Your loc journey may have all types of challenges that you don't know how to face, but we're here to tell you, you are not alone.
We sat down with Erica to learn more about her Loc Journey of 6 years. Below is what she had to say:
Do you remember what inspired you to grow locs?
“Honestly, it was an accident. I was just getting into the natural thing and twisted my hair and left it like that. And they began to loc and I thoroughly enjoyed it and the journey thus far.”
What's the most important lesson you've learned along your hair journey?
“I think for myself, it's a beautiful thing realizing that my hair is a part of me. Especially my locs. They represent growth, change struggle and beauty. For a very long time I think we were naive or oblivious of the fact that when people see us, they see our hair too and judge us based on what that looks like to them. When I resided in Boston, MA, I was denied a 2nd job interview because of my locs. And at that very moment, I didn't quite understand what or why this was happening to me. However, it taught me to embrace myself, my hair, and my culture.”
I'm sorry to hear about being denied that second job interview because of the way you grow your hair. How has your experience in the workforce been since that experience?
My experience has been great, actually. I ended up landing a role in corporate America, went and completed my masters degree and back in corporate. The workplace is very diverse and open where I currently am. They accept me and all of me and I'm grateful for that and the opportunity to prove that my hair does not define my work ethic.
What advice would you give to a person that wants to loc their hair?
“Go for it. It's only hair. It's beautiful. It's like going through those butterfly stages. You think it's rough, you think it's nappy, you think your locs are just not cooperating. But in all actuality, everything is preparing you for greatness. You have to experience it for yourself. Everyone's journey is different. :)”
Do you have any hair tips you'd like to share?
“DO NOT! I repeat, DO NOT dye your hair too much until your locs truly mature. Keep them moisturized. For me, Jojoba oil, vitamin E oil and Avocado oil works well in addition to hair mayonnaise. Do not retwist too often. Let them be free.”
I love seeing the different loc styles you've posted on your page. What is your go to hairstyle?
I'd have to say my go to hairstyle is two strands. Whenever, I want to just do something quick after washing without re-twisting
What does professionalism mean to you?
“Professionalism to me is making the profession and not letting it make me. If that makes sense. Mastering things that I am passionate about and becoming a pro in it.”
What's something you enjoy doing or what's one thing you're passionate about?
“I am passionate about supporting Black Owned Businesses. Which is why I started I Support BOBS. It's such a warm feeling supporting new and established entrepreneurs. The glow on their face is beautiful when they recognize someone believes in their brand, movement, or business. It's great!”
Lastly, is there anything else you'd like to share with us?
“This platform is dope. Thanks for creating it. I love when people create safe spaces of different cultural genres. Keep striving and doing great things. I love it. :)”
Erica, thank you so much for taking the time to sharing your Loc Journey with us and we love the platform you’ve built to support black entrepreneurship
Connect with Erica:
Website: https://www.iheartbobs.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/isupportbobs
Twitter: http://twitter.com/isupportbobs
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/isupportbobs
Now It’s Your Turn!
Join us by sharing your loc journey and help people learn more about life with locs.
“Go for it, but be patient. Once you realize how it’s okay to be in the “ugly stage” or for your new growth to show l, you’ll embrace the beauty” - AYAM