Celebrating identity and culture through natural hair
By Foresee Foundation
Spearheaded by the Art Agency Foundation AXUM in collaboration with Nelly Blaise of True Roots, the Hair Stories project, is redefining the way St. Maarten’s community engages with heritage, identity, and self-expression. Rooted in the belief that hair is both personal and political, the project uses art and education to empower individuals to embrace their natural beauty and reclaim the cultural narratives tied to Black hair.
Through a series of four interactive and educational workshops, the Hair Stories project invites participants to explore the deep historical and social significance of Afro-textured hair across generations and countries. Each session seeks to blend discussion, creativity and self-care, offering a safe and inspiring space for the community to examine how hair has shaped identity and culture within Afro-Caribbean communities.
Topics will range from ancestral hair traditions and the legacy of colonization to modern struggles over professionalism, spirituality, freedom, and self-love. Through these explorations, participants can deepen their understanding of the historical, cultural, and personal significance of their hair, with the ultimate aim of opening spaces for honest conversations about beauty, power and belonging.
These workshops lay the groundwork for a future community festival celebrating natural hair in all its forms. The festival is envisioned as a powerful gathering that will feature storytelling, live discussions, product-making sessions, and performances by local creatives. Participants will have the opportunity to share their personal “hair” stories, moments of pride, struggle, and transformation, fostering a sense of solidarity and collective empowerment.
The Art Agency Foundation has long been a champion for creative and cultural development on St. Maarten. Through initiatives that highlight local talent, provide education, and offer professional development for artists, the foundation is helping to build a stronger, more sustainable artistic community. Its partnership with True Roots, a soon-to-be established organization dedicated to cultural identity and natural hair advocacy, ensures that Hair Stories is grounded in both artistry and authenticity.
This project falls within the Let’s ACT Program. Funded by the Fonds voor Cultuurparticipatie (FCP), the Let’s ACT Program is a collaborative initiative of CEDE Aruba, the St. Maarten Development Fund (SMDF), and Foresee Foundation 4CF. The program is designed to expand public access to the arts, support local creatives, and build a sustainable cultural and artistic infrastructure in St. Maarten and Aruba. Running from April 2025 through September 2026, Let’s ACT will empower local artists and cultural organizations through funding, training, mentorship, and community engagement.
By celebrating the beauty and power within natural hair, “Hair Stories” continues the mission of using culture and creativity as tools for empowerment, education, and unity across St. Maarten.
To stay informed about this initiative, feel free to visit www.axumartcafe.com or reach out to Ms. Ryanne Bowers, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn more or explore collaboration opportunities.
