Hairstylists Njeri Radway and Yene Damtew were recently featured in former First Lady Michelle Obama’s new book, The Look. The two recently shared their journey on the role they played in beautifying her hair, which has long been a symbol of identity, freedom, and quiet rebellion.
In an interview with Essence, Radway said, “I was shocked initially and then humbly honored to be included in such a historic artifact that will be passed down from generation to generation. One could only dream.”
Damtew added, “I was definitely excited. As a Black woman and hairstylist, I think it’s important for us to understand how much hair reflects who we are as individuals.”
The two hairstylists discussed the importance of this recognition, emphasizing the deep connection between beauty and personal identity.
“It means the world to me,” Radway said about the acknowledgement’s importance. “The little Black girl inside me is jumping for joy because representation was always important to her. Seeing someone who looks like you matters.”
When asked what they hope readers take away from their presence in The Look, Radwa replied, “That it is okay to just be and show up confidently without apology.” Damtew responded, “That anything is possible when you stand firmly in your decisions.”
Damtew also highlighted the link between hair and self-expression, stating, “Beauty and identity are deeply connected for all people. I’m proud to be part of a historic body of work that shows how our hair allows us to express ourselves freely.”
For hairstylists, hair is more than just style; it is an expression of culture, community, and care. When asked how working with Mrs. Obama has enriched this understanding, Radwa replied, “Our hair is our identity. It is an honor to help my clients move through the world with confidence.”
Both Radwa and Damtew expressed similar feelings when reflecting on moments from behind the chair that demonstrate the deeper meaning of their work, which extends beyond simply styling hair.
Radwa emphasized the frequent occurrence of these moments, noting, “Those moments happen often. Some clients decompress in silence and you can literally see them get lighter. That’s when I know it’s more than hair.”
Damtew, on the other hand, stated that “every client reminds me that the real job is helping someone feel beautiful from the inside out.”
When asked how to achieve a “polished” look while remaining authentic, Radwa and Damtew offered different perspectives on redefining the standard.
Radwa, a lifelong wearer of natural hair, advises clients to embrace their hair’s natural growth, asserting that “any style can be polished.”
Damtew suggests broadening the definition of “polished,” stating, “Polished should mean well-maintained. Not straight. We need to redefine that standard for ourselves.”
The artists defined ownership in terms of both financial independence and the ability to influence the future of the beauty industry.
Radwa explained that she sees ownership as “full financial autonomy and the power to drive systemic change in the beauty industry.”
For Damtew, ownership means “having a seat at the table and sharing our experiences honestly so the next generation can grow and rise.”
Radwa and Damtew shared similar perspectives on maintaining authenticity in a beauty industry that often dictates standards.
Radwa encouraged people to remain true to themselves and “do not conform to constructs that were never made for us.” Damtew echoed this sentiment, advising individuals to “decide what beauty means to you” and emphasizing that “our light comes from within, and that’s what people truly see.”
Radwa advises young Black women entering the hairstyling industry to take the risk, stay dedicated, and let fear push them, recognizing that success does not happen overnight, while Damtew emphasizes that continuing education and soft skills are essential for sustaining a long-term career beyond temporary trends.
Regarding their legacy, Radwa stated, “I want Black women to continue pushing the envelope and taking up space. We are the blueprint.” Damtew expressed, “I hope my legacy is helping women feel their best and reminding them that they are not captive to any beauty standard.”
