“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

“She told me that I needed to either cover my locs with a wig or cut them off. I wasn’t cutting them so I wore wigs for about 6 months. In the summer of 2018 the Navy finally authorized locs and I threw my wig out that day!” - Rebekah Elaine

“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 actually like to show up with a messy top ponytail and headscarf and go against the ‘neat’ standard because it makes me stand out and I get to prove to people and students that a teacher doesn’t look a certain way or that a scholar doesn’t look a certain way. So I kind of show up how I want to places.”

“Yes. Growing up in the 90s with the whole movement to have knowledge of self, positivity, and self expression prompted me to express myself this way. I was in love with the Rastafarian movement. To be honest my hair grows like wildfire, so I wanted to let it do what it did.” - Chef Will Hall

I don’t want to hear anything about an “ugly phase,” there is no such thing! We as a people need to stop saying that. Everything is a process. If you want the result, respect the process. Read more to find out what Kearah-Read learned from her loc journey

My loc journey started when I was 3 years old, so it was technically not my decision, however, I have never dreamed of my hair being any different. I have always loved my locs and I take pride in my hair, it has grown with me. Read more to find out what Rebbie learned from her loc journey