This past Saturday, the Uhuru Salon crowned Yikhenah of Serenity MYO, as the 2012 natural hair competition champion during its first-ever Natural Hair Revolution competition.
Unveiling her talent to a capacity crowd at the Sheldon Concert Hall on July 28, Yikhenah presented her models under the theme, “Mother Earth,” showcasing six models as the “Sun Goddess,” “Sand Storm,” Seasons in Eden,” the “Tree of Life,” “Blue Nile” and the final one, “Diamonds in the Rough,” in which a statuesque sister paraded down the runway covered in all black body paint from head to toe and diamonds. Upon her entering the stage, the crowd could hardly contain itself. This breathtaking move of creativity put her ahead of audience favorite Akassi of Easley Done Hair, whose dominatrix theme was not enough to bring her a victory.
“I am just so proud and humbled to have been able to execute my talents here once again,” said Yikhenah. “I’ve been on hiatus for quite some time, and I really appreciate the work that Tara Lowery, my make-up artist, and each of my models brought to my show.”
Yikhenah is looking forward to competing again next year. A native of Jamaica, she walked away with the $1,000 prize and bragging rights of being the best natural stylist of 2012. The mother of six and former owner of the Natural Creations shop specializes solely in natural hair care, of which she has done for the past five years at Serenity MYO. Her runway styles included micro braids, dreadlock styles, braid styles, custom coloring and a naturally curled style.
Natural Hair Revolution host Erica “Natural” Bennett couldn’t be more satisfied to see the realization of a vision that she’s had for many years.
“I am more than ecstatic that the St. Louis natural hair community came out to support my first effort at such an event,” said Uhuru Salon owner and creator of the Natural Hair Revolution Erica “Natural” Bennett. “It was a spectacular show that really put the spotlight on the talent we have here in the STL, and I am looking forward to it being even bigger and better next year. Thank you St. Louis.”
