Embracing My Afro: Overcoming Stereotypes and Self-Confidence
Growing up, Hannah Beau was ashamed of her hair due to relentless bullying from schoolmates who cruelly called her a ‘poodle’. Despite looking ‘visibly white’, Hannah has always had an afro, which became her biggest insecurity. For years, she resorted to straightening her hair, causing damage and distress as she struggled to accept her natural curls. However, a turning point came four years ago when she bravely shared her insecurities in a video diary on TikTok, seeking advice on how to care for her hair.
The response was overwhelming – overnight, Hannah’s video went viral, gaining support from hundreds of thousands of people worldwide, including celebrities and Black and mixed-race women who could relate to her struggles. Encouraged by this outpouring of support, Hannah, now an online content creator, has embraced her natural hair and frequently shares curly hair tutorials to help others on their own hair journey.
Reflecting on her past struggles, Hannah regrets the years she spent trying to conform to societal beauty standards by straightening her hair. She acknowledges the damage it caused both physically and emotionally, leading her on a journey of self-acceptance and redefining her mindset. Growing up in a predominantly white area where she was one of the few people of color with afro-textured hair, Hannah felt the pressure to fit in and often faced microaggressions and stereotypes from her peers.
Despite the challenges she faced, Hannah found solace and support in the online community, especially during the lockdown when she reached out for advice on her damaged hair. Celebrities like Skai Jackson and Amber Gill showed solidarity with Hannah, reinforcing her belief that she was not alone in her struggles. Through this experience, Hannah learned to love and care for her natural hair, visiting Black-owned salons to find hairdressers who understood and catered to afro hairstyles.
The recent comments made by Mel B about being pressured to straighten her hair for a music video struck a chord with Hannah, who could empathize with the singer’s experience. Mel B’s call to end afro hair discrimination resonated with Hannah, who believes that updating the Equality Act 2010 to include afro hair as a protected characteristic would be a significant step towards combating institutionalized forms of discrimination. She supports Mel B and Labour MP Paulette Hamilton in urging lawmakers to make afro hair discrimination illegal, particularly in schools and hairdressers.
As Hannah continues to advocate for afro hair acceptance and inclusivity, she emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s natural self and beauty. Through her own journey of self-discovery and empowerment, she hopes to inspire others to love and care for their hair, regardless of societal norms and pressures. With the support of a global community that celebrates diversity and individuality, Hannah’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and strength that comes from embracing one’s true identity.