My Experience at the Urban Hideaway -Fellowship of Excellence

Attending the Urban Hideaway Fellowship of Excellence event was a pleasure. Held to bring together industry experts, celebrate diverse beauty, and showcase the latest in haircare. Not only was I thrilled to perform a hair demo, but it was also my first time stepping out as a new mother, leaving my three-month-old baby at home.

The Urban Hideaway Fellowship of Excellence: A True Celebration of Artistry

Upon arriving, the energy was electric. The Urban Hideaway Fellowship of Excellence gathered hairstylists, artists, and influencers from all walks of life, creating a space where creativity flowed and inspiration flourished. The venue was beautifully set up, with displays showcasing innovative hair techniques and vibrant styles that highlighted the diversity of our craft. This event was more than just an industry gathering; it was a celebration of the powerful impact of hair as an art form.

The crowd was enthusiastic, and I could feel a shared appreciation for the beauty of textured, Afro hair and the stories it carries. I knew that this was the perfect environment for my demonstration, called 'Bridging the Gap'.

Bridging the Gap: A Hair Demo That Tells a Story

My hair demo 'Bridging the Gap', was a nod to the unifying power of hair and beauty. Working with an Afro model, my goal was to show techniques that bridge the gap of growing out chemical relaxers and natural texture of Afro hair. It was important for me to celebrate the unique beauty of Afro hair—its volume, texture, and resilience—while also addressing some of the common challenges people face in styling and care.

The model was phenomenal, and as I worked, I could see how each movement, each twist, and each section added to the story we were telling. Afro-textured hair holds a unique place in our culture; it’s an emblem of strength, individuality, and pride. Through my demo, I wanted to convey that Afro hair isn’t just a “style” to achieve—it’s a journey to be embraced.

The audience was receptive, and I could feel the energy as they watched each step, asking questions and sharing their own experiences with Afro hair. The support and excitement I received from fellow stylists, who resonated with the theme of “bridging the gap” was genuinely uplifting.

Looking Forward:

The Urban Hideaway Fellowship of Excellence was a beautiful reminder that we are constantly learning, growing, and reshaping ourselves. This experience not only allowed me to share my artistry but also gave me a chance to connect with like-minded people who understand the depth of our craft.

I left the event feeling grateful, inspired, and excited about what lies ahead. For every artist, there’s a moment when your work feels like an extension of yourself. At the Urban Hideaway event, I felt that alignment, and it was a joy to contribute to a space that honours and uplifts the beauty of textured hair.

In this new chapter of balancing motherhood and professional growth, I’m excited to keep bridging the gaps—between my art, my family, and the community that fuels it all. Thank you, Urban Hideaway, for an unforgettable experience, and here’s to many more!