Beyond Braidz is a community-focused social enterprise committed to empowering young teens and adult women through the development of cultural and transferable skills. We believe that skills rooted in cultural heritage, not limited to hair care and styling, are powerful tools for personal expression, confidence, and community cohesion. Our aim is to make these transferable life skills accessible, relevant, and enriching, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment among our community that ultimately can birth a holistic wellbeing.
Our Ethos:
At the heart of Beyond Braidz is a commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and collaboration. We operate with a deep respect for diverse cultural traditions and recognise the importance of celebrating individual identity through skill-sharing. We are passionate about creating opportunities for personal growth, fostering social connections, and reducing social isolation by building supportive networks within communities.
Core Values:
- Cultural Heritage & Pride: Respect and celebrate cultural traditions, ensuring they are passed on and valued.
- Empowerment & Confidence: Enable participants to acquire skills that boost self-esteem, independence, and self-worth.
- Collaboration & Community: Work in partnership with existing community hubs and organisations to maximise reach and impact, fostering a sense of belonging.
- Inclusivity & Accessibility: Provide supportive environments where all individuals, regardless of background, ability, or circumstance, feel welcomed and valued.
- Lifelong Learning & Transferable Skills: Promote learning experiences that extend beyond haircare and styling, equipping individuals with skills applicable across various areas of life and work.
Approach:
Beyond Braidz endeavors to collaborate with local community hubs, schools, and organisations to ensure that cultural and transferable skills are accessible to those who need them most. Our programs aim to reduce social isolation, especially among marginalised groups, by creating safe and engaging spaces for skill development, mentorship, and social interaction.
Through research and inclusivity, we empower the community to take the lead in community research initiatives whilst amplifying their authentic voices through art-based creative research strategies. We pride ourselves in delivering transferable skills, and building community connections, not limited to hair braiding, and being able to kickstart impactful conversations between young people and adults within the community.
