When asked what we’d do if resources doubled or tripled overnight, the answer was easy: invest in braiders.
Even if you didn’t make it to the @naturalhairshow , you can still get a free sample of braidbetter by joining our Affiliate Program. We want every single braider to try our plant-based braiding hair. Ambitious? Yep. Possible? 💯
What are you waiting for? Join now at the link in bio.
Against all odds. 😮💨
Black founders get far less grace than others. It often feels like we have one shot to get it right—miss it and you’re done for. But I am still here.
I spoke to Asia while I was in Kenya and shared some of the exciting things to come. I feel honored to be in the company of some of the women I’ve long admired—and even more honored to still be building my dreams.
So very thankful to my good girll @missasiamilia for tapping me for this story.
Kenya Adventures Pt. 10 💪🏽
This is my last update from Kenya.
I came here to build Rebundle, but in a lot of ways, this experience built me too.
There was a moment last year when I said f*** it and started conversations with my counsel and some of our investors about winding things down. Then I had the idea to move to Kenya for a while.
Before this, I was running on empty — burnt out and just surviving. My tax accountant saw my W2 and asked, how are you making it in New York?!
These past few months, I adopted a new mentality: put me first. Taking care of myself isn’t separate from the work because there is no Rebundle without me. Founders know if you are unwell, your company is unwell.
So this next chapter will look different…because I’m different. If you notice the glow, just say bora uhai, which translates to so long as you are alive. 🇰🇪
ATLANTA ✨
Catch Rebundle at the @naturalhairshow this April for a live workshop.
We’re hosting a session for braiders ready to think differently about the materials they use and the beauty businesses they’re building.
Every braider who attends will have the opportunity to become an affiliate partner and receive a FREE sample of braidbetter on the spot.
Beat us there—tickets on sale now at naturalhairshow.org ✅
Kenya Adventures Pt. 9 🎨
This part of the process is where chemistry really comes into play.
Reactive dyes bond directly to the fiber, meaning the color becomes part of the material, not something sitting on top. Unlike other dyes, they don’t rely on heavy metals to achieve that bond.
Not all dyes are created equal. It’s not just about what’s used—it’s about how it behaves and what you’re actually exposed to.
Kenya Adventures Pt. 8 🇺🇬
This week took me across the border to Uganda. Time on the ground with each team helps keep everything aligned–from texture to quality–and is a reminder that building something this complex takes patience and partnership.
Who remembers when we used to sell out for weeks at a time? 🙈 That’s exactly why we made the decision to stack our suppliers across neighboring countries. Being close geographically allows us to move easily between them and gives the teams the ability to support one another.
It’s all part of building a stronger, more resilient supply chain and making sure braidbetter is available where and when you need it. 😉
Kenya Adventures Pt. 7 🏖️
The week prior was a little intense, so I was glad to have one of my besties come visit.
It’s hard to believe I’ve been in Kenya for almost two months, working almost every day on texture and quality control. It was time for a break, though, because I know I’m my best self when I can recharge.
Just an hour away by plane, Diani Beach is the perfect little getaway. If you’re ever in Kenya, the coast is definitely worth the trip.
Kenya Adventures Pt. 6 on 👶🏽
Receipts? I can show you better than I can tell you.
When you’re working with plant-based materials, trace amounts of naturally occurring elements can exist in the environment—including in water and soil. That doesn’t mean we ignore them. It means we investigate, trace pathways, and strengthen our systems where possible.
Independent testing matters. We share the same goal: protecting consumers. It’s also important to understand what was measured and what wasn’t. For example, microplastics in synthetic hair extensions still aren’t being tested… but that’s a conversation for another day.
Innovation is a journey. And we’ll keep striving for better.
Kenya Adventures Pt. 5 🐔
I know it looks like I’m having a lot of fun (I am), but this is a business trip first. Here’s what most days actually look like.
The best part? Watching us inch closer and closer to the best version of braidbetter yet. 🌱✨
Kenya Adventures Pt. 4 🏃🏾♀️
I’m running through Nairobi like a tomb raider!
Wins this week:
- Met a wigmaker
- Took a tuk-tuk AND a matatu
- Didn’t get my phone stolen
- Made it to the gym
- Spoke at a natural fibers forum
- Living an African soft life ✨
Seriously though, we’re making a ton of progress in product development (I’ll share a detailed update next week). I’m meeting the right people and having the best time. 💚
Kenya Adventures Pt. 3 🪡
Three weeks in and things are starting to click. Witnessing circular systems up close, from concept to application, is so powerful.
The rugs made from hair waste really blew my mind—I can already see this in my NYC apartment! 💁🏾♀️
When we talk about eliminating plastics from our everyday lives, why stop at beauty products? I’m choosing plant-based over petro-based every chance I get.
What do you think of this next-level use of banana fiber waste?
Kenya Adventures Pt. 2 🇰🇪
Week one flew by. Family vacation turned into “let me lock in” real quick. I’m still adjusting my schedule and trying not to work 10–10 every day.
Making time to move my body, getting valuable face time with our partners, and rolling with each day as it comes.
There’s still so much to see and accomplish, but I’m feeling deeply grateful in this season. Asante. 😌
