My life experiences are broad and far reaching. I am a consummate advocate and cheerleader. My background includes skills as an author, writer, folk artisan and case manager for a federal job program.

Though both my parents are African American, we did not have the same hair types and from the earliest age I was responsible for grooming my own tresses.

My organically developed skills have served me well over the years. It was not until I opened my first salon in the 1980’s and hired an indigenous braider from Sierra Leone did I begin to understand that my styles had names. I began to travel around the country and Canada learning more. Through the journey:

• I was licensed initially as a natural hair care specialist in New York

• Served as a contributing writer, presenter or announcer for hair and non-hair related media including  writing a book about dreadlocks in 1999

• Became the First Hair Braiding Folk artisan endorsed by the Minnesota State Arts Board

• Became a licensed cosmetology instructor, industry advocate, manager and service provider

• Was asked to testify in front of MN legislature twice for hair related issues

• Have served on several hair and non hair related boards and serve as an advocate, mentor and guide for many professionals and lay persons

• Created Hair, Head & Heart for AM 1570 (twin cities wellness radio) and have moved to internet radio to reach an international market.