Getting Down To Frizzness: Shaquaila!

She's sweet, beautiful, intelligent,motivated....and has a rockin' mane of curls! Let's meet Shaquaila - Frizzness Natural Beauty!

How long have you been rocking your frizzness?

I started transitioning in April 2009. After a summer of braids and twist, I decided its time to make a change. On September 28, 2009, I did my big chop. So I have been natural 21 months total.

Did you desire a second date following your BC/End of transition, or did you make reservations for a party of ONE?

I called my best friend over after work on September 28. I told him I was having a hair crisis. After 5.5 months of transitioning, I felt the only way it could be dealt with was with a pair of scissors and India Arie in the background playing. With his support, I started chopping it off. However, I did go to the barber for a shapeup the next day.

Natural Hair doesn't define who you are BUT...

However, it contributes to the light from within me, that I let shine confidently. I have always been a person full of excitement. Since being natural, my energy is unidentifiable.

What was the moment of epiphany in your journey?
My moment of epiphany was when I began to notice how much more relaxed and confident I was when speaking about my natural journey to those interested or appearing interested. I noticed that I smiled at people when they would frown at the “thought” of me walking around with “Nappy” hair. My smile only left them with looks of confusion. Many individuals find it challenging to expect change and go beyond the norms of society.

Because natural manes are so unpredictable, how do you combat feeling defeated on days when your crown seems less than stellar (based your OWN criteria)?
I have to remind myself that each day is different, and just because I rocked a fierce twist out one day, does not mean I will the next. Also remembering not to have high expectations of my hair helps considering it is unpredictable. Normally my worst hair days to me, are the best according to my peers.

Do random people attempt to lay hands in your mane?
Yes, random people do try to put their hands in my hair. My reaction depends on the setting, situation and/or person. I once was uneducated and very interested in other natural around me; therefore, I do not mind the questions and curiosity of my hair.

Do you find your mane becoming the grand topic of conversation?
OMG, Yes I do. I am a “talker”, such a friendly kinda gal. Since being natural, I’ve met so many cool peeps, whether be in the mall, grocery store, bank, work, gym….you name it, just from interest of my hair! I do notice that at work, I find myself constantly discussing the versatility of the different styles I do. I work in a predominantly Caucasian evironmonent; therefore, many of them think its “cool” that my hair can look so different each day.

CONFIDENCE CHECK: Has natural hair allowed you to dance as if no one is watching, or has your aurora remain unfazed since your relaxed days?
YES, it has….I dance and carry on like no other. I tend to often feel so Sassy due to the liberation!

Share some secrets leading to a fabulous, happy, HEALTHY mane...promise we WILL tell!
My biggest “secret” is finding yourself worth, because there will be many challenges that comes about. I mean this is life, and throughout life, we all endure journeys. Knowing that each natural hair journey cannot be duplicated, because its individual intent was originated for only you.

What was the WORST mistake you’ve made along the way?
Personally, I do not feel I’ve made “horrible” mistakes, but a constant struggle in the beginning was learning what products do and don’t work for me. Of course Im still trying to figure that out, but remembering that because it worked wonders on someone else mane, doesn’t mean it will on mine.

What advice can you bless new, transitioning or frustrated kinky curly queens with?
Try keeping your cool and remain patience. Patience is the ultimate key within each journey.

What's the most fabulous part of your journey to frizzness?
Educating others that are interested in being natural, or that’s already within their journey. And the joy of knowing that no one looks like me, especially if Im in a room full of relaxed (no offense) women. I love options, difference and versatility, which are all things that my natural mane provides me with. Oh and being featured in Essence May 2010 Natural Hair Edition has been a FAB moment.

Outside of your gorgeous mane, what inspires you?
Other phenomenal women that aren’t afraid to stand for what they believe. In addition, knowing that being natural for me is more than a trend or fad, but a lifestyle change.

How can our beautiful readers find you on the web?
I can be found on facebook, my user name is Shaquaila Jones. Or follow me on twitter at nappibutterfli

Many thanks & blessings for getting down to frizzness!