What is your initiative?

Addressing racial disparities in haircare for Black youth in Ottawa through:

• Services for today – Providing equitable, pop-up hair salons that meet Black youth where they are and support black businesses.
• Training for tomorrow – Facilitating community knowledge exchange and learning opportunities to empower Black youth with hair autonomy and appreciation.
• Improved access, always – Launching a website and application to connect the community to a Black hair care services and information hub.

What is your connection to your chosen community?

As a young Black woman living in Ottawa and a member of this community, I share in the lived experiences of racial disparities and discrimination related to Black hair. Overcoming these barriers yet witnessing younger youth and Ottawa newcomers facing the same persistent challenges inspired me to take action and create meaningful change for our community.

What are you looking forward to this year?

I hope to facilitate lasting connections through my initiative—mentorships, friendships and client relationships. I look forward to fostering change, appreciation, and connection in my community, with the support of my cohort and the Pathy Foundation.