In an exhilarating display of creativity and empowerment, the Kanekalon Hair and Braids Festival returned in 2023, transcending all expectations from the previous year.

With a resounding commitment to breaking stereotypes and celebrating the artistry of young student hairstylists, Kanekalon once again set the stage for a remarkable event.

This year's two-day festival was held in three of Ghana’s prestigious universities, namely; the University of Ghana, University of Cape Coast and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (KNUST) kicked off with a grand product activation on the first day.

Each campus visited was abuzz with excitement as students gathered under the stands to get their favourite hair products made with 100% Kanekalon fibres and witness the fun showcase of the many colourful fibres by partner brands of Kanekalon.

The main event, which took place on the second day in each University was a spectacle to behold.

Talented university students vied for the top spot, presenting their interpretations of contemporary, futuristic, and bridal-themed hairstyles.

From intricate braids intertwined with colourful African fabrics to avant-garde designs inspired by cultural heritage, each creation showcased the ingenuity and flair of the young hairstylists as well as the versatility of the hair products used.

This was a true testament to Kanekalon's message of "Hairstyling is for all" resonating powerfully with the audience.

The judges were impressed by the kaleidoscope of styles that utilized 100% Kanekalon fibres, applauding the participants' exceptional skills and storytelling abilities through their art.

At the end of it all, Miss Vensessa Naa Atswei a determined Integrated Rural Art and Industry student of KNUST emerged as the winner, walking away with a ¢3,000 cash prize, a citation of honour, and a package of hair products sponsored by Kanekalon's valued partners.

As The festival's journey continued to the University of Ghana Legon in a blaze of great anticipation, the event witnessed an even more diverse range of hairstyles that defied convention.

The participants fearlessly experimented with looks that blended cultural symbols and modern trends, leaving the judges and the audience in awe.

Miss Nana Ama Safowaa a Human Resource level 200 student emerged as the ultimate winner among 10 creative UG contestants.

After a series of fierce rounds, Miss Rita Brown Blessed, a talented level 400 Procurement and Supply chain management UCC student emerged as the winner as she showcased her mastery of the craft and her determination to push the boundaries of hairstyling.

The Kanekalon Hair and Braids Festival concluded this year’s series on an exhilarating note. The students and audience in each school exuded energy and passion, fully embracing the festival's theme of celebrating uniqueness and breaking barriers.

Throughout the festival, Kanekalon remained committed to its mission of empowering young creative minds, especially women, in their pursuit of excellence.

The event received immense support from the brand's partners, including Outré Africa, Darling Ghana, and Mirron, whose dedication contributed to the festival's resounding success.

At every school stop, partners of the brand commendably gifted all attendees of the events with hair products and other souvenirs.

Laura Mills and Kwaku Asamoah, the Marketing executives of Kanekalon on this project, expressed their pride in witnessing the extraordinary talent displayed by the students.

She commended the participating schools and the dedicated efforts of the Women's Commissioners in organising the event.

They both expressed their anticipation with excitement for the next edition next year as they reiterated one of the campaign’s core messages "Hairstyling is for all" with the assurance of continued support and commitment to nurturing dreams and empowering the hairstylists of tomorrow, forever celebrating the beauty and diversity of hair artistry with their hair fibres.