Welcome to
Illinois Association
Of Hair Braiders
At the Illinois Association of Hair Braiders, we believe that everyone should have access to high-quality hair braiding services.
That's why we work to promote the industry and advocate for policies that support the growth and success of our members.
Whether you're a professional hair braider or just a fan of beautiful braids, we invite you to join us in our mission to celebrate this ancient and beautiful art form.
THE ISSUE
As a “little girl with golden hands,” I moved from Africa to America with dreams of becoming an architect. Overcoming many barriers to my dreams, I found passion not in designing buildings, but in creating hairstyles with my unique hair braiding skills. My dreams took root in Illinois, and I made a home, here, with my family in 2000. When Governor Pat Quinn enacted the braiding license law (HB5783) in 2010 that made hair braiding its own license and regulated by the Illinois Department of Finance and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), a wave of hope swept over me and countless others in the industry. It wasn’t just a piece of paper - it was empowerment: recognition of our craft as professional artists, entrepreneurs, and educators. Since obtaining my braiding license, I have dedicated myself to advocating for those in our community who couldn't make their voices heard, becoming the president of Illinois Association of Hair Braiders (IAOHB.org)...
