Welcome to Braids of Love
Empowering Lives Through Skill, Confidence, and Community
"Even in the storm of illness, your light still shines; even in the shadow of struggle, your worth remains untouched. Beauty is not diminished by hardship, and strength is not measured by wealth—yet with the right resources, both can flourish." Theresa Tumminia- Founder of Braids of Love
Who we are
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Who we are *
Our Mission
At Braids of Love, we believe in the transformative power of entrepreneurship, cultural connection, and community support. Founded in 2018 as an initiative of MATI-X, we started by advocating for the Crown Act, championing the beauty and significance of natural hair. Over time, Braids of Love has evolved into a full entrepreneurial program that equips young people and women with marketable skills and the tools to build a brighter future.
Food as a Bridge to Connection
Braids of Love is a 501c3 nonprofit that began with a food reclamation program, using food to connect with and serve our community. Although we’ve refocused on entrepreneurship, our values of sustainability, service, and community remain at the heart of everything we do. Ask us about access to healthy food resources.
What We Do
Entrepreneurship for Young Adults (Ages 15–24)
We teach students the art of natural hair braiding and weaving while providing a comprehensive foundation in business formation. Participants gain real-world experience by running their own businesses for six weeks, learning to market their skills, manage clients, and build confidence—all essential tools for long-term success.
Supporting Women Re-entering the Workforce
For women overcoming life’s challenges, including re-entering the workforce after chemotherapy, we provide specialized hair experiences customized to their medical, financial and aesthetic needs. This program not only teaches valuable life skills but also restores confidence, dignity, and financial independence.
Upcoming events
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Dream it.
Everything starts with an idea. Whether you're launching a business or turning your passion into something bigger, we're here to help!
Visit mati-x.com or email braidsofluv@gmail.com to learn more about our entrepreneur workshops!
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Build it.
Visit our trusted professional community partners for expert hairstyling or to purchase a custom wig crafted by a celebrity stylist. With every purchase, a portion supports the BoL Entrepreneurship Program, helping young entrepreneurs build their futures. Your support also helps provide free custom wigs to women in medical recovery, empowering them to return to work with confidence.
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Grow it.
At our graduations, we proudly gift custom-styled wigs to women re-entering the workforce after chemotherapy. Each wig is thoughtfully crafted by our graduates and community partners, ensuring beauty, confidence, and a fresh start.
💌 Request Your Custom Crown: Email us at braidsofluv@gmail.com to sign up!
How You Can Help
Partner with Us
Join us in creating opportunities by sponsoring a student, donating supplies, or funding a six-week business startup for a participant.
Volunteer Your Time
Share your skills, mentor participants, or assist with community outreach to make a lasting impact.
Spread the Word
Help us amplify our mission by sharing Braids of Love with your friends, family, and network.
Empowering the Next Generation
By teaching young adults tangible skills and the basics of entrepreneurship, we’re helping them unlock opportunities for financial independence and personal growth.Supporting Breast Cancer Survivors
With a personal connection to this cause, our program helps women regain their confidence and enter the workforce with pride and purpose.Strengthening Communities
Through our initiatives, we promote cultural appreciation, reduce food waste, and foster economic stability in underserved communities.
Why It Matters
Sign up for Braids of Love workshops!
Get on the Crowning Success list to receive a customized look!
Contact Us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!