About 20 University of La Verne students attended the Vista La Verne dorm hair braiding event March 6, where participants shared their hair-do skills, along with some of the cultural origins and significance of braiding.
Thatiana Gibbs, senior journalism major and Vista La Verne resident advisor, came up with the activity.
She’d been talking with friends about braiding and some of the challenges of natural hair, and she realized it could be an educational activity.
“Proper sectioning and tension control are … crucial to creating neat and even braids without causing discomfort or damage,” Gibbs said. “Patience and practice are key. Braiding takes time to master, so beginners should start with simple styles before progressing to more intricate techniques.”
The event offered an educational overview covering the history, techniques, and care of braiding, followed by a fun and interactive quiz led by sophomore kinesiology major Fiyona Haile, where participants will have a chance to win a silk pillow.
“The main goal I hoped to achieve with this event was to help residents learn their hair type and how to manage it (and) learn different types of hair styles and braids to feel more confident,” Haile said.
Wintana Tsegaye, sophomore legal studies, led a hands-on braiding lesson. Demonstrating techniques that participants practiced using mannequin heads provided for the event.
Participants rotated through different stations to refine their braiding skills and socialize.
Students also got their questions about specific techniques, product recommendations, and hair maintenance routines answered.
—Lexi Giacobbe
Lexi Giacobbe is a senior communications major with an concentration in public relations. She is a staff photographer for the Campus Times and La Verne Magazine, a staff writer for the magazine, and previously served as a staff writer for the Campus Times. She is also a member of the University of La Verne volleyball team.
