Carmel Roberts
"I am not my hair. I am not this skin. I am the soul that lives within." These powerful lyrics from India Arie’s song I Am Not My Hair challenged society’s long-held beauty standards, questioning the idea that a person’s worth or identity should be tied to their appearance.
Hair has long been more than just strands growing from the scalp—it carries history, culture, and personal identity. At the University of the Western Cape (UWC), students embrace a variety of hairstyles, each reflecting their journey, confidence, and self-expression.
Across UWC and beyond, hair trends have continued to evolve, reflecting cultural shifts and growing empowerment in embracing natural beauty. The natural-hair movement has gained momentum over the years, challenging outdated beauty standards that favour Eurocentric aesthetics.
Zoe Groep, a second-year BCom Information Systems student, shared her personal journey of transitioning to natural hair.
For Esethu Mapapu, a second-year BCom General student, hair care is all about convenience.
“I love my afro. It's so convenient. I don't have to do much. I don't have to go to salons. I just have to comb and take care of it,” she said.
Students are increasingly opting for styles like afros, braids, twists, and dreadlocks as a means of self-expression and cultural pride. Protective styles, that strengthen the hair and prevent breakage, such as box braids and cornrows, remain popular, allowing for easier hair maintenance while celebrating African heritage.
Malusi Simelane, a first-year BSc Physiotherapy student, recently started locking his hair, finding both confidence and a routine in the process.
“I like it. It's very new for me because in high school, I had very short hairstyles. So it's interesting now, but I feel confident when it's done. I just locked it at the end of last year. It takes a while. On wash day, it takes me anywhere from an hour to three hours. The process includes shampoo, conditioner, oil, and then a moisturiser. I use the oil every other day, and I wash depending on how dry my hair gets because my hair is very porous—it soaks in water very quickly.”
Social media platforms have played a crucial role in educating and inspiring students to take care of their natural hair. Online communities provide tips on maintaining different hair textures, using organic products, and celebrating the beauty of black hair. This shift in perspective has led to a greater sense of confidence among students who now see their hair as a symbol of strength rather than something to be altered to fit external expectations.
For first-year BCom Accounting student Ronaldo Arries, his taper fade haircut is more than just a style. It’s a form of self-care.
“It makes me feel better because I started this hairstyle two years back. Yeah, and me having messy hair makes me feel better. I go to the barber every two weeks for my taper fade.”
At UWC, a university known for its history of activism and cultural diversity, hair is more than a fashion statement. It connects students to their heritage and reminds them of the power in embracing their roots - literally and figuratively. It’s a form of self-care.
“It makes me feel better because I started this hairstyle two years back. Yeah, and me having messy hair makes me feel better. I go to the barber every two weeks for my taper fade.”
At UWC, a university known for its history of activism and cultural diversity, hair is more than a fashion statement. It connects students to their heritage and reminds them of the power in embracing their roots - literally and figuratively.
Cape Argus