Creative Director - Annita Kayiba
Assistant Creative Director - Zeeggy Mercy
Videographer - Benjamin Shimwa
Makeup Artist (’60s & ’80s) - Stephanie Jones
Makeup Artist (’90s & Current) - Kunashea Artistry
Hairstylist (’00s) - TSHX Touch Hair
Hairstylist (’80s & Current) - Camara Beauty
Barber (’70s & 2010s) - Prophetic Cutz, Fokhus
Braider - Braids by Nae
Props Master - Kenza Cardot
Stylist - King Bernie
On-Set Assistants - Chris K. Simba, Neuxhe 65

With Deeply Rooted, I wanted to create a visual project that honors the beauty, resilience, and versatility of Black hair. Hair has always been more than just style for us—it carries history, identity, and the weight of both struggle and pride. Each braid, curl, twist, and loc holds stories of resistance and survival, but also of creativity, celebration, and self-definition.

This series is a tribute to that journey. By highlighting the diverse textures, shapes, and cultural influences of Black hair, my goal was to capture not only its aesthetic power but also its role as a form of expression and heritage. Hair connects generations—it evolves, yet it remains rooted in who we are.

Creating this work during Black History Month was intentional. It is a reminder that our culture is not confined to the past but is living, breathing, and constantly transforming. Through this series, I wanted to showcase how Black hair reflects both resilience and joy, serving as a symbol of strength and artistry across time.