TRELAWNY, Jamaica — Westwood High School has recently become a part of the Afro Day movement, a growing initiative that celebrates natural hair, cultural identity, and self-expression. Spearheaded by Kimberly Todd, a mathematics teacher and the 2022 Miss St Ann Festival Queen, the event saw female students proudly showcasing their natural curls, coils, and textures.
Todd, who has long advocated for this celebration, expressed her pride in finally seeing her vision come to life. ‘As a cultural ambassador, I’ve always wanted this for the girls since 2022. Although it didn’t happen two years ago, I’m thrilled to have succeeded this year. It’s crucial for the girls to embrace their true selves,’ she remarked. She also emphasized the importance of self-expression, even within the confines of the school’s uniform regulations, which traditionally include wearing hats.
The Afro Day movement, which gained momentum in Jamaican schools in 2023, has seen participation from institutions like St Catherine, Excelsior, Green Island, and Meadowbrook high schools. It aims to foster pride in African heritage and challenge outdated stereotypes surrounding natural hair. With Westwood High School now joining the movement, the event underscores Jamaica’s progress in celebrating black beauty and cultural authenticity.