On Saturday 5 August 2017, CURLYTREATS Festival took over the ILEC Conference Centre in London for an unforgettable day dedicated to celebrating natural hair, beauty, and culture. From hands-on workshops to inspiring talks, our festival was packed with positivity, learning, and vibrant community vibes.
Masterclasses, workshops and empowering conversations
The event was a full day of learning, sharing, and connecting. Guests could choose from a packed schedule of beauty talks and masterclasses led by some great names in natural hair and wellness.
Expert talks and demos included:
- Leah Salmon, The Naturally You Coach: Shared how smoothies made from superfoods can enhance your hair and skin health from the inside out, with a live smoothie-making session.
- Stephanie Sey, Consultant Trichologist: Taught practical tips to prevent split ends and breakage, helping attendees understand why natural hair might seem like it's not growing.
- Anastasia Chikezie, Cantu natural hair stylist: Led a workshop on natural hairstyling techniques to enhance your curl pattern while staying true to your natural texture.
- Rachael Corson and Joycelyn Mate, Afrocenchix: Ran sessions explaining the science of natural hair and how to create personalised hair care routines for adults and children.
- Aaron Wallace, Shear & Shine: Educated men on how to build skincare routines and how to grow and maintain healthy beards.
- Jay and Trina, Curlture: Delivered an empowering session about unlocking your inner magic and celebrating your uniqueness through their Black Girl Magic workshop.
- Hazel-Kay, Shalshani: Shared anti-ageing skincare secrets using natural methods to keep skin healthy and radiant.
- Michelle De Leon, World Afro Day: Celebrated the heritage of afro hair, advocating for pride, positivity, and visibility across the globe.
- Katrina Emmanuel, Mane Divas: Led DIY natural hair product-making workshops for children and adults, teaching participants how to create nourishing haircare products at home.
- Abena Hagan, Children's author: Hosted storytime sessions focusing on natural hair pride and beauty through interactive readings.
- Stephanie Erivo, Fitness expert: Delivered an energising talk about how to reclaim wellness and fitness on a budget.
Celebrating culture with fashion and beauty
Festival guests were treated to stunning fashion shows by House of Loulee, showcasing children's fashion, followed by a women's runway show featuring designs by independent brands in the marketplace. There was also a headwrap station with live demonstrations by Sunuker and Anaisarts, where guests learned how to style vibrant wraps confidently and stylishly.
Marketplace magic: discover, shop, support
The buzzing marketplace featured an incredible selection of beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and wellness brands. Big names like Cantu, Mixed Chicks, As I Am, and GroHealthy were there alongside indie brands, offering everything from haircare must-haves to accessories and lifestyle goodies. Attendees had the chance to meet brand founders, grab exclusive discounts, and find their new holy grail products.
Community, culture and conversations
One of the highlights of Curlytreats Festival 2017 was the open beauty panel discussion - "beauty, still tangled in politics" - where panelists including Lekia Lee, Jay and Trina, and Aaron Wallace explored important topics around identity, empowerment, independence, and building a stronger community.
Memories made, confidence ignited
CURLYTREATSFestival 2017 was more than an event - it was a celebration of self-love, community pride, and empowerment. Whether you attended a workshop, learned a new styling tip, discovered a new favourite brand, or simply vibed with likeminded people, we hope you made powerful memories and gort all the inspiration you need..
CURLYTREATS Festival continues to be a celebration of identity, creativity, and resilience - and 2017 was the year that reminded everyone just how beautiful natural hair and community spirit truly are.
