Attending "Reclaimed: Beyond the Braid" Short Film Screening- Attending author talks/book readings: 2 points

 

                     On Thursday, October 9th, I attended the "Reclaimed: Beyond the Braid" short film screening. The film was made by Ciara May, who wanted to share her story about building her hair company called "Rebundle." During the movie and event, Ciara shared her story about being a Black woman with a sensitive scalp, which made it difficult for her to keep up with braiding trends. Other Black clients, braiders, researchers, and dermatologists explained how they all had moments where they had to take out their braids due to irritation from synthetic hair. Their stories inspired Ciara to begin her journey of becoming the founder of "Rebundle," a company that makes plant-based braiding hair from banana leaves. 

                    Her story was inspiring as she immersed the crowd in the journey of traveling to Africa and exploring how leftover banana leaves can be transformed into multiple forms through manipulation. I loved hearing her story as an environmental student, planning to advocate for sustainability through plant-based solutions. It showed me that environmentally friendly ideas can make a difference and that I should place trust in the solutions I develop throughout my career. 

- Taje' George