Afrofest Ottawa, sponsored by the City of Ottawa, is one of the anticipated summer festivals in the city of Ottawa. Afrofest Ottawa is not just a festival; it's a celebration of culture, heritage, and unity. It brings together people from various backgrounds to appreciate the richness and diversity of African and Afro-Caribbean cultures. As the co-founders of Beauty Braids & Beyond we were excited to share the cultural experiences related to beauty and hair, as members of the African and Afro-Caribbean community.  

Our booth at Afrofest Ottawa was a vibrant display of top-quality hair accessories and hair and skin care products, tailored to suit a wide range of hair textures and styles. From natural hair care essentials such as shampoos, conditioners and bonnets, to an exclusive collection of our Satin-lined Hats and Ankara Print Scrunchies, we had something for everyone looking to embrace their unique beauty. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of participating in Afrofest Ottawa was connecting with the vibrant community, including fellow vendors - Embellished by Mickel, African Grill , Chap Chap Snacks and IA Financial Group. It was nice to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and bond over our shared love of personally engaging with our customers.  

We had the privilege of sharing products and hair care tips to children and their parents, who required our assistance. We connected with a mother who was transparent in sharing her struggles in maintaining her son’s locs. We were delighted to unite a loctician with this mother that was able to provide her with the support she needed to properly care for his hair. This encounter truly made us reflect on the individuals we started this business for and how we could impact their hair journeys. 

Another highlight of this event was the electrifying performance by the sensational Nonso Amadi. The internationally acclaimed Nigerian-Canadian singer and songwriter captivated the audience with his soulful melodies and infectious energy. His presence added an extra layer of magic to an already entertaining event. 

Overall, our experience at Afrofest Ottawa 2023 was incredibly enriching, and we're grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this celebration of culture and beauty. We look forward to continuing our mission of empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty and hair through quality and accessible products. 

Beauty Braids & Beyond is more than just an online beauty supply store; we're a community that celebrates the diverse tapestry of beauty and hair. Afrofest Ottawa 2023 was a testament to the power of unity and culture, and we're proud to have been a part of it.