PROJECT AFRO TEAM DAY IS ALL ABOUT LOCS & BRAIDS

The team spent the day at Wella World Studio in London with project leader Patricia Davis, Sharon Thompson International Marketing Manager for Design Essentials and guest mentors, Lloyd Thomas, Teldra Campbell, International Artistic Educator for Design Essentials & Lauren Parchment, Educator & Founder of MCR Braids.  The day was all about Locs & Braids.

Lauren is the founder of MCR Braids, a premium braiding salon that redefines the balance between luxury and convenience for the professional, working woman with textured hair. With a deep passion for textured hair care, culture, and community, she is committed to creating a space where Black women can embrace their natural beauty while maintaining a polished, professional look. Beyond leading MCR Braids, Lauren is a braid teacher and mentor, dedicated to guiding beginner braiders in developing their skills, confidence, and understanding of hair health.

Emma Mulvihill comments: “The best session so far!  The morning session was delivered by Lauren from MCR Braids teaching us the history of braids to begin with and then simple but beautiful cornrows. This afternoon was with Teldra learning locs. I have never seen anything like this before and felt comfortable and relaxed to ask questions.I feel it is so important to attend these sessions and break down barriers that have been created over the years. Such an interesting and informative session, thank you all!”

Takisha Rial comments: “I had such an amazing day with Project Afro, taking part in the braiding and LOC training. Lauren was absolutely incredible, so patient and encouraging, and really helped us get the hang of the techniques. Her skill and talent are truly inspiring, and I honestly could’ve spent the whole day (and more!) learning from her. It was especially powerful for her to share some of the cultural and historical background of braiding, which made the experience even more meaningful. Teldra was also fantastic—she broke down different LOC techniques so clearly and helped us understand the differences between them. Her insights into the cultural, religious, and historical significance of LOCS added so much depth to the session. It was such a rich and inspiring experience overall.”

Trevanna Watkis added: "The braid & locs session was amazing from start to finish.. Learning about the history of braiding, its origins, and how long it has been practiced was truly interesting. The second part of the day with Teldra was great as well. We explored different locing techniques and the various types of locs. It was such an interesting and fun day; I loved every part of it!"

PROJECT AFRO Team Leader:  Patricia Davis
PROJECT AFRO Team Mentees:

•    Kelly Angel, HUB Cornwall
•    Daniella Fowler, Headmasters Sutton
•    Alexandra Wood, Toni&Guy, Sloane Square
•    Jade Miles, Voila Hair Studios
•    Takisha Rial, The Egg Salon
•    Trevanna Watkis, HOUSEOFSISTERS
•    Emma Mulvihill, The Scissor Psychologist