The dreaded professionals
Embracing Dreadlocks in the Modern Workplace
The tapestry of an international organization is richly woven with threads of diverse backgrounds, faiths, cultures, and lifestyles. It's a vibrant kaleidoscope where acceptance and inclusion are not just buzzwords, but cornerstones of success. In this symphony of human experience, hairstyles like dreadlocks play a unique and often misunderstood role. Once frowned upon as unprofessional or even rebellious, dreadlocks are now increasingly recognized as an integral part of identity, a symbol of cultural heritage, and a testament to the evolving landscape of workplaces across the globe.
This article delves into the world of dreadlocks, not just as a hairstyle, but as a powerful expression of selfhood and a call for respect in the modern professional sphere. We'll explore five compelling reasons why individuals choose to wear dreadlocks, dispel common misconceptions, and advocate for inclusive policies that celebrate diversity in its myriad forms.
1. A Tapestry of Cultural Roots:
For many, dreadlocks are deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual traditions. In Rastafarianism, for instance, dreadlocks represent a vow of the Nazarite, symbolizing a connection to the divine and a rejection of societal norms. African cultures often associate dreadlocks with strength, wisdom, and ancestral lineage. In India, Sadhus, holy men dedicated to spiritual pursuits, sport dreadlocks as a symbol of detachment from worldly concerns. Recognizing these cultural nuances is crucial to understanding the significance of dreadlocks beyond mere aesthetics.
2. A Celebration of Natural Beauty:
Dreadlocks are, fundamentally, a hairstyle formed by the natural twisting and matting of hair. This eliminates the need for harsh chemicals or damaging styling techniques, allowing individuals to embrace their natural hair texture and celebrate its unique beauty. In a world obsessed with conforming to Eurocentric beauty standards, dreadlocks stand as a powerful symbol of self-acceptance and appreciation for one's inherent appearance.
3. A Statement of Individuality:
For many, dreadlocks are a form of artistic expression, a way to showcase their unique personality and defy conventional beauty norms. The intricate styles and lengths offer endless possibilities for creativity, allowing individuals to personalize their dreadlocks and make them an extension of their self-image. This freedom of expression fosters a sense of empowerment and confidence, qualities that are invaluable in any professional setting.
4. A Connection to Community:
Dreadlocks often serve as a bridge to vibrant communities built on shared cultural heritage, spiritual beliefs, and a common understanding of the challenges faced by those who deviate from societal expectations. These communities offer support, understanding, and a sense of belonging, which can be especially important for individuals navigating workplaces that may not yet fully embrace diversity.
5. A Symbol of Resilience:
Throughout history, those who have chosen to wear dreadlocks have faced discrimination and prejudice. Yet, they have persevered, using their hairstyles as a silent protest against societal norms and a celebration of their cultural heritage. This resilience is a valuable asset in any workplace, reminding us that strength and determination can often be found in unexpected places.
Beyond Aesthetics: Embracing the Human Story
It's important to remember that dreadlocks are not merely a hairstyle; they are a window into an individual's story, a symbol of their cultural heritage, spiritual beliefs, and unwavering sense of self. By respecting and recognizing the significance of dreadlocks, we acknowledge the rich tapestry of human experience that makes up our organizations and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
Confronting Misconceptions and Bias:
Unfortunately, dreadlocks are often shrouded in misconceptions and biases. It's crucial to address these head-on to foster a more inclusive and understanding workplace environment:
Hygiene Myth: Contrary to popular belief, dreadlocks can be maintained hygienically through regular washing and proper care routines. The perception of dreadlocks as unhygienic is often rooted in prejudice and a lack of understanding of different hair textures and maintenance practices.
Professionalism Bias: The assumption that dreadlocks are unprofessional is outdated and discriminatory. Numerous successful professionals across diverse industries wear dreadlocks with pride and demonstrate exceptional competence in their fields.
Cultural Appropriation Concerns: While cultural appropriation is a valid concern, it's important to distinguish between appreciation and disrespect. Individuals wearing dreadlocks with genuine connection to the cultural significance behind them are not necessarily appropriating, but rather engaging in cultural exchange and appreciation.
To further challenge stereotypes and celebrate the achievements of individuals who wear dreadlocks, let's look at some inspiring examples:
Inclusive dress codes: Revisiting and revising dress codes to ensure they are inclusive of various cultural and religious attire and hairstyles, avoiding language that discriminates against specific styles like dreadlocks.
Inspiring Examples: Leading with Dreadlocks
To further challenge stereotypes and celebrate the achievements of individuals who wear dreadlocks, let's look at some inspiring examples:
- Ezra Olubi: One of Nigeria's most recognised tech dreaded icon, Ezra is the CTO of Paystack, one of Nigeria's leading fintech.
- Jude Dike: CEO of GetEquity
- Wiza Jalakasi: EBANX's director of Africa market development
- Funmi Dele-Giwa: General counsel and head, GRC at MFS Africa
- Uche Nnadi: PayHippo
- Peace Itimi: Digital and growth marketing expert.
- Njoku Emmanuel: former CEO of the now defucnt Lazerpay
- Steve Babaeko: X3M Idea's CEO and an ads industry leader
- Charles Dairo: CEO of Beezop
- Sam Udotong: Founder at Firefiles.ai
- Ekene Nkenchor: Kuluya games designer
- Mubashir Bello: Co-founder at Eleven36
- Joesph Akintolayo: Founder at Fintech Deposits
- Niyi Adebiyi - Director, Corporate Communications, West Africa - Visa
- Dele Farotimi- Renowned Lawyer, one time Presidential aspirant, activist.
Building a More Inclusive Future:
Moving forward, organizations must actively foster inclusive policies and workplaces that celebrate diversity in all its forms, including hairstyles like dreadlocks. This can be achieved through:Diversity training: Educating employees about different cultures, traditions, and hairstyles can help dispel misconceptions and build empathy.Inclusive dress codes: Revisiting and revising dress codes to ensure they are inclusive of various cultural and religious attire and hairstyles, avoiding language that discriminates against specific styles like dreadlocks.
Employee resource groups: Supporting the formation of employee resource groups for individuals with shared cultural backgrounds or experiences, including those who wear dreadlocks, can create a sense of belonging and community within the organization.
Leadership by example: Leaders who openly embrace diversity and challenge biases by celebrating employees of all backgrounds.
In conclusion, our society has to evolve passed looks, there once once a time, appearances mattered, "first impressions matter" and yes they do, but substance matters more. First appearances can be deceiving and this is common knowledge, but even though it may matter to a few, we hope to create the necessary awareness needed home and abroad, especially with the growing tech industry and the number of tech youths being churned out to drive value and solve issues within their societies. We beg employers, the security agencies and the politicians to respect the growing number of professionals wearing dreads, to look at their productivity and value and not their hair or how they look.
If you read this article and want to join a group of dreaded professionals where we advocate for inclusion, dignity and respect in the work place and also help each other out as an association, sharing knowledge, hold meetings and hangouts, go on sensitization drives, plan professional exchange programs and all kinds of fancy activities click here to join or refer a friend.
written by Mundez
edmundez@me.com.
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