Rediscovering Identity Abroad: How Embracing My Natural Hair Helped Me Reclaim Freedom

For 15 years, I navigated the high-pressure world of corporate law across Asia Pacific—Singapore’s humidity, China’s bustling cities, and now, Dubai’s scorching desert heat. Each move brought more than just a change in climate; it was a transformation in identity, career, and self-perception.

Leaving the structured world of law for entrepreneurship in Dubai forced me to confront questions I’d long ignored: Who am I outside of my job title? How does my environment shape my identity as a Black woman? And why did it take moving across the world to finally embrace my natural hair?

In this piece, I explore the intersections of climate transitions, career reinvention, and self-acceptance—and how my natural hair journey became a powerful symbol of freedom. Plus, I’ll share insights from my recent YouTube video on raising my daughter to love her curls in a world that often tells her otherwise.

From Corporate Lawyer to Entrepreneur: A Radical Reinvention

For over a decade, I thrived in corporate law—tailored suits, boardrooms, and the unspoken expectation to conform. In Asia, where professionalism often meant straightened hair and Eurocentric beauty standards, my natural texture felt like a rebellion I wasn’t ready to wage.

But Dubai shifted everything. The dry heat made relaxers unbearable, and entrepreneurship gave me the space to redefine success on my terms. No more hiding behind sleek buns or chemical treatments. For the first time, my hair—and my identity—could be unapologetically mine.

Climate & Hair: How Weather Forced Me to Embrace My Natural Texture

Asia’s Humidity vs. Dubai’s Dry Heat

• Singapore & China: The sticky humidity meant constant frizz battles. I relied on heat tools and heavy products, damaging my hair just to fit in.
• Dubai’s Arid Climate: The desert air dried out my strands, making relaxers and excessive heat unsustainable. My hair demanded moisture, protective styles, and—finally—acceptance.

The climate didn’t just change my routine; it liberated me. No more fighting my texture—instead, I learned to work with it.

Motherhood & Natural Hair: Teaching My Daughter to Love Her Curls

One of my biggest motivations? My daughter. Watching her navigate her own hair journey in a world that often dismisses Black beauty standards pushed me to lead by example.

In my recent YouTube video, I discuss:

• The pressures young Black girls face in predominantly straight-haired societies.
• How I support my daughter’s natural hair—from protective styles to positive affirmations.
• Why representation matters, especially in expat-heavy cities like Dubai.

Entrepreneurship as Self-Discovery: Finding Freedom Beyond a Job Title

Leaving law wasn’t just a career shift—it was a reclamation of self. As an entrepreneur, I no longer had to code-switch or conform. My business, like my hair, reflects me: bold, textured, and unrestrained.

Lessons from My Transition:

1. Authenticity attracts the right opportunities.
2. Self-acceptance is a journey—not a destination.
3. The freedom to be yourself is the ultimate luxury.

Final Thoughts: Your Turn to Build a Thriving Life Abroad

Living abroad strips away familiarity, forcing you to rebuild—and often, rediscover—yourself. My natural hair journey mirrors my expat experience: sometimes messy, always evolving, but deeply rewarding.

If this resonates with you, join my newsletter The Arbitrage Mindset, where I share unfiltered tips on:

• Navigating identity and entrepreneurship abroad
• Thriving in new climates (literally and figuratively)
• Creating a life that aligns with your values

Subscribe here and start building your own blueprint for freedom.

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