Meet the Founders of The Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition, Inc.
Mission & Vision
The Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition's mission is to Elevate the ART & SCIENCE of the natural hair care industry through our Four Pillars: Advocacy & Activism, Ethical Education, Business Development, and Community Health & Safety. We envision a world where everyone has access to safe, ethical, and sustainable hair care regardless of hair type and texture.
About Us
The Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition, Inc. (NHBC) is a tax-exempt advocacy organization committed to revolutionizing the $11.8 billion Natural Hair Care Industry by addressing critical gaps in education and training for natural/textured hair. For too long, Black women and individuals with natural/textured hair have endured hair trauma due to a lack of understanding and expertise in natural hair care, resulting in physical and psychological harm. At NHBC, we work to uplift the beauty wellness standard and the cultural significance of natural/textured hair while advocating for consumer protection and professionalism within the industry.
Diane Da Costa
Co-Founder
With over 30 plus years in the beauty industry, Da Costa's calling is to educate, inspire and motivate both consumers and professionals as a textured hair advocate. Diane is leading the charge of change in the multi-textured hair movement.
Diane C. Bailey
Co-Founder
Diane's deep understanding of the historical context of textured hair and its cultural significance enables her to eloquently express the intricate relationship between culture and hair.
Debra Hare-Bey
Co-Founder
A passionate advocate for the licensure of braiders, Debra actively champions the recognition and professionalization of the braiding industry, working tirelessly to ensure that braiders are properly trained and certified.
Natasha Gaspard
Co-Founder
Working with hair care professionals and brands has resulted in the creation of impactful video series, natural hair events, panel discussions, presentations, and community workshops. Natasha utilizes her platform to raise awareness and shed light on the intersections between natural hair, culture, politics, race, and identity.
Erin H. Maybin
Co-Founder
A licensed beauty professional, influential member of the NYS Appearance Enhancement Advisory Committee, and writer. Erin challenges the norms by offering a fresh perspective. Advocating for curriculum, testing, and legislation that benefits the future and current natural hair care professional.
Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition's 4 Pillars
Advocacy & Activism
Create and uphold professional standards and protocols, with accompanying curriculum while spearheading legislation that protects the rights of hair care professionals and the consumer.
Ethical Education
Foster growth and innovation in the industry while promoting the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and safety.
Business Development
Assist natural hair care professionals in building sustainable careers through licensing, training and certification, while increasing career opportunities and service quality for clients.
Health & Safety
Set standards for public safety through proper sanitation practices and the implementation of safe and effective styling techniques for the natural hair community.
Psychohairapy Certified
The NHBC Founders prioritize mental health and wellness, recognizing the direct correlation between our community's hair and overall well-being. Psychohairapy uses hair as an entry point to mental health, it is where hair meets psychology and culture.