Naturally Fierce Feature: Imani

Hi y’all! My name is Imani Boyd . I’m 22 years old and I’m a recent graduate from University at Pittsburgh with a concentration in business management and economics. Traveling and thrifting are my current obsessions and I have aspiration of being a clothing buyer.

How long have you been natural?

I’ve been natural since my sophomore year in college. So about 2 and a half years ago.

What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?

Right before I started my second year in college I was rocking the more Rhianna-esqu style with a shaved side and a weaved bang 0.o.. It was a bit high maintenance for my low maintenance college lifestyle so a big chop was totally in order . I was really ready for a fresh start.

How would you describe your hair?

I was describe it as moody . I call my afro Sheila . She’s cooperative some days and just frizzy and dull other days. All she really needs is tender love and patience . I’m happy with my hair but I use protective styles such as crochet braids(which I’m currently rocking for the summer) and faux locs (which is mainly a winter look)to attain other Style that work better with my busy schedule.

What do you love most about your hair?

I love my natural color is a Brown/black that complements my skin tone.

How is dating while natural ?

It actually varies the response I get throughout my journey . I don’t think I get more or less attention but merely a different response. Men are inquisitive about my hair and if they’ve known me for a while they often ask what’s next. Men are simple tho. I usually smell like coconut hibiscus or shea butter due to the products I use, so I think they appreciate that.

What has been the most memorable part of your journey?Has it been easy or difficult or both?!

The most memorable part was actually the chop. I got my hair chopped in my mother’s favorite salon Duafe in Philadelphia . I remember I cried in the chair . It was a whole big scene but I did it with my mother by my side so it was perfect.

What are some of your favorite  hairstyles?

Some of my favorites style is my protective style that I’m currently rocking as a post grad which is my crochet braids installed by (@youknowbre) Breanna Pamplin, a super talented hairstylist currently located in Harrisburg, Pa. It’s such a easy hairstyle and works great with my lifestyle, I really love doing faux locs on myself as well as just letting Sheila run wild in just a twist out.

What have your experiences been as a ‘natural.’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?

I’ve always been a person who does what she feels and don’t apologize for it so my big chop wasn’t much of a surprise to my family. They were unsurprisingly supportive.

What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?

When my hair is out I’m using a regimen by a friend of mine who has amazing hair . First co wash hair with a conditioner or co wash I prefer As I am or Eden Body works. Then coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil. Work through it in sections and make sure to finger detangle.Then seal with a cream..I prefer As I am double butter or whipped shea butter and twist each section hair.

What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?

I love naptural_87 and Aprilbee_Heavy black heart️

Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?

I can’t stress enough having patience with hair. Enjoying each stage but if your are naturally antsy like me .. Then crochet Braids, Marley twist and faux locs are awesome ways to change things up during your journey,

Where can people find you for more information?

First off thank you for asking me for a feature ! I really appreciate it Heavy black heart️. I can be found on Instagram : jajagabore_ and twitter : @jajagabore . I also run a online vintage and thirfted clothing shop. Rosewww.etsy.com/shop/jajagabore