Kamiyah's Crown

Embracing the Beauty Within

By: Tonya Renee Anderson

Narrated by: Nicole

Length: 7 mins

Publisher's summary

In a vibrant city neighborhood, young Kamiyah stands out with her thick, unruly curls, a captivating dance of nature atop her head. Yet, amidst a sea of friends with straight hair, she often feels like an outsider, yearning for sleek locks that mirror their own. Her untamed tresses become a source of frustration, a burden she wishes she could shed.

Kamiyah's mother, Mrs. Johnson, becomes her guiding light. Through stories and tenderly woven braids, she imparts wisdom about the splendor and strength of natural hair, emphasizing its connection to their heritage and identity. "Your hair is a crown of glory, Kamiyah," she insists. "Never forget that."

But Kamiyah's path to self-acceptance is clouded by societal standards that elevate straight hair as the epitome of beauty. Classmates' teasing amplifies her self-consciousness. It takes a brilliant idea from her mother to set her on a new course.

One summer day, they embark on a journey to an African heritage museum. Amongst the exhibits, Kamiyah encounters powerful depictions of African queens and warriors, each adorned with hairstyles that honor their culture and individuality. Intricate braids and extravagant afros captivate her.

In a pivotal moment, Mrs. Johnson points to a regal African queen with a natural hair crown, saying, "She embraced her natural beauty and wore it with pride. Your hair is just as magnificent as hers." Kamiyah smiles, her heart swelling with newfound pride.

With determination, Kamiyah embarks on a journey of self-discovery. She learns to care for her curls, enhancing their natural beauty with oils and products. She explores various styles, each a celebration of her unique self.

As her confidence grows, Kamiyah returns to school with her head held high, impervious to the teasing and comments of others. She becomes a beacon of self-acceptance, inspiring her friends to embrace their natural beauty.

Kamiyah's hair transforms into a symbol of strength and resilience, just as her mother had foreseen. In the end, her journey stands as a testament to the power of self-acceptance, reminding us all that true beauty radiates from within and embracing our individuality is a journey worth taking.

©2023 Tonya Renee Anderson (P)2023 Nicole