On Saturday 26 October 2019, CURLYTREATS Festival transformed Novotel London West, Hammersmith, into a vibrant hub of beauty, culture, and empowerment. Our community came together to learn, celebrate, and connect - all while embracing the excellence of natural hair.
Throughout the day, attendees experienced expert-led seminars, hands-on workshops, and cultural exchanges designed to inspire confidence and champion self-expression.
Expert-led curly hair seminars
Our seminars featured trusted industry leaders who shared practical knowledge on haircare, skincare, and holistic wellness:
- protecting your edges and restoring hairlines: Hairstylist Verona White taught methods to repair thinning edges and rejuvenate hairlines with actionable tips.
- natural hair myths debunked: Joycelyn Mate and Rachael Corson from Afrocenchix busted common seasonal haircare myths for managing curls during colder months.
- hair, identity, and self-expression: Stephen Debellotte from Design Essentials led a thought-provoking session on the deep link between hair and personal identity.
- nourishing your body, enhancing your hair: Nutritionist Amaeze Madukah shared how a plant-based diet can boost curl strength and health naturally.
- instantly glamorous natural styles: Influencer Chuma Soko showcased easy, creative hairstyles perfect for special occasions or everyday flair.
- seasonal haircare for rapid growth: Dr Lola Akingbola revealed techniques to protect and accelerate natural hair growth during the colder seasons.
- healthy ageing secrets: Hazel-Kay from Shalshani introduced anti-ageing skincare routines designed for winter months.
- understanding hormones and hair health: Holistic nutritionist Leah Salmon explained how menstrual cycles impact hair and how to maintain balance.
- celebrating afro hair heritage: Michelle De Leon, founder of World Afro Day, inspired attendees to embrace and celebrate the global beauty of Afro hair.
The youth zone: inspiring confidence in young curly girls and teens
We dedicated a special area to young guests, helping them build self-esteem, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit:
- hair confidence for kids: Ekwy Chukwuji-Nnene from Equi Botanics led sessions helping children appreciate and love their curls.
- practical hair styling for young girls: Princess Keisha from A Crown of Curls taught easy, hands-on hairstyling techniques.
- diy natural haircare for teens: Verona White showed teenagers how to create homemade products, encouraging independence and creativity.
- teenage skincare solutions: Dr Lola Akingbola shared tips for clear, healthy skin using natural methods.
- from passion to profit: Abena Hagan, CEO of Curls-AuNaturel, mentored teens on how to turn passions into profitable businesses.
The expo experience: connecting with innovative curly hair brands
Our buzzing expo showcased brands that truly understand and celebrate curls. Attendees explored new products and received personalised haircare advice from:
- creme of nature: Highlighted their Pure Honey collection, delivering moisture-rich care for curls all year round.
- revlon realistic: Presented their Black Seed Oil range, designed for strength, versatility, and resilience.
- design essentials: Offered tailored consultations and product recommendations for textured hair.
- nhs blood donation awareness: Raised awareness about the urgent need for Black blood donors, promoting lifesaving community contributions.
Celebrating together: building a stronger community
CURLYTREATS Festival 2019 was more than just an event - it was a celebration of identity, pride, and community power. The atmosphere was filled with positivity, love, and connection, leaving everyone inspired long after the day ended.
Thank you to everyone who attended, contributed, and supported us. Your passion fuels our mission to uplift, empower, and celebrate the beauty of natural hair and Black culture every single day.
