About the Founders
Meet The Team
The Origins of the Loc’d Hair Expo
Our Story
A Movement Rooted in Culture, Crowned in Community
The inspiration for the Loc’d Hair Expo began with Lateefa, a proud wearer of Locs for over five years and an avid traveler with a deep appreciation for the culture surrounding natural hair. As she journeyed from city to city, she actively sought events that celebrated the Loc’d lifestyle. Yet time and again, she discovered that such gatherings were limited, and especially scarce in the South, leaving a noticeable gap for a community rich in culture, expression, and tradition.
Motivated to create the space she had been searching for, Lateefa approached her cousin Fatimah, co-organizer of Atlanta’s iconic Sweet Auburn Music Fest. Together, they envisioned something bold and meaningful: an immersive cultural experience dedicated to honoring the Loc’d Hair Culture while fostering an inclusive environment where heritage, individuality, and self-expression could thrive.
As the concept evolved, it became clear that the event needed to authentically represent the diversity within the Loc’d community. This culture spans a wide range of backgrounds, beliefs, aesthetics, and intentions. Whether Locs are worn for spiritual reasons, cultural identity, or personal style, the vision was to create a space where everyone could feel seen, respected, and celebrated.
During the planning process, Fatimah engaged Sasha, a Master Loctician with extensive experience in hair artistry and community care. Her insight helped ensure the event would thoughtfully represent the professionals who maintain and protect the crown, as well as the artistry and discipline behind Loc’d hair.
Recognizing the close connection between Loc’d and Natural Hair communities, and the shared care, commitment, and pride involved, Fatimah also championed the inclusion of natural hair enthusiasts. This addition broadened the scope of the event, uniting both communities under one powerful and intentional experience.
Together, the team developed a dynamic and inclusive concept designed to honor all facets of Loc’d and Natural Hair culture, bringing together Locticians, stylists, wearers, healers, spiritual practitioners, naturalistas, newcomers, and cultural leaders alike.
The Loc’d Hair Expo is more than an event, it is a cultural movement. Rooted in unity and empowerment, it is a vibrant celebration of diverse hair textures and styles, created to educate, uplift, and inspire while fostering a true sense of belonging and community.