The Naturalista Nine: Marliceia Chavers
New Georgia Mae feature!
It’s no secret we’re a huge fan of natural hair here at Georgia Mae so today I’m launching The Naturalista Nine, a Q&A feature of nine questions (hence the name) with natural hair beauties around the country (and even around the world). Our first featured naturalista is Marliceia Chavers of Birmingham, Alabama.
Marliceia Chavers recently teamed up with Keisa Sharpe of The Natural Hair Diva to help her develop Birmingham Naturalistas, a social group for Birmingham area women who wear their hair in its natural state. The group will have an informal meet-up Saturday, July 23 as ladies gather for breakfast at 8:30 a.m. at Golden Corral, 1185 Center Point Parkway. If you’re interested in attending RSVP at mjchavers@gmail.com by tomorrow.
Now let’s get to know Marliceia…
Why do you think Birmingham needs more natural hair meet-up groups?
I believe Birmingham needs several natural hair meet-up groups. One group cannot reach everyone or may not even have the same target market and or focus. We are an evolving city and I would like for the natural hair community to be at the forefront when big things begin to happen, all the while making big things happen.
Why are these groups important for the women involved in them?
Oftentimes people get the misconception that this is just about hair, but it is not. This is a movement that will teach people to embrace and love themselves wholly and completely just as God created them. We need to learn that there are so many gifts and talents that God wants us to share, but how can we begin to give when we don’t give ourselves the love and appreciation we deserve? Society focuses on the superficiality of life and what they think is acceptable. What is truly important is that we all learn to embrace every part of ourselves and if it must begin with natural hair, so be it.
When did you go natural?
I began my natural journey on December 31, 2008. Originally, I had talked my mother into going natural the prior year, but I was still relaxed.
What prompted you to finally do it?
One day my hair stopped responding to the relaxer. It was almost like my hair had gone on strike and was saying “no more creamy crack.” I did not listen though. My beautician tried five different relaxers on my hair within a six-month span and my hair continued to revert back to its natural state. Finally, I broke down and got micro braids for a period of three months. During those three months, I researched natural hair care every day and spoke with several women who were already natural to find out where to begin. On December 30, 2008, I took down my micro braids, washed my hair, and big chopped. On December 31, 2008, I went to a professional who completed my big chop and two-strand twisted my hair. That is how my journey began and I haven’t looked back since.
Why do you think natural hair has become increasingly popular lately?
First, I believe that women are starting to develop severe problems with the chemical application of relaxer and it is become a last resort. Secondly, I believe women are starting to make healthier choices and they are finding that embracing their natural hair is an awesome way to start. Lastly, I believe that it is an increasingly popular trend because of the versatility of our afro textured hair. The reproach that the stigma of afro textured hair initially had is being removed and is being replaced with the symbolism of strength, beauty, fashion.
Do you think natural hair is a fad or do you think its popularity is here to stay?
Natural hair is definitely here to stay, whether it started as a fad for some or not. No one can ever replace the original, it can only evolve or be altered and I am sensing evolution.
What are some of your favorite natural hair care products?
My top product brands are Jane Carter Solution, Qhemet Biologics, Komaza Care, and Bear Fruit Hair.
What are some of your favorite styling techniques?
Two-strands are my hands down favorite. I can pin them up, do a fro-hawk, et cetera. The best is the twist-out because it makes a statement every time.
What encouragement would you offer to new naturals who are having a hard time and having second thoughts?
Educate yourself. Don’t rely solely on YouTube and what people tell you. Read and get the facts. We all want the luscious hair we see, but in order to achieve that we have to put in the work, time, and money. You only have one head of hair, so invest and nurture it. I guarantee you will not regret it.
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