Celebrating World Afro Day: Embracing Diversity and Identity

Matthew Dix
Sep 7
4 min read

Updated: Nov 5

On Monday 15th September 2025, schools around the world will join in celebrating World Afro Day — a day dedicated to Black hair, pride, and identity in all its natural forms. Whether hair is worn in an Afro, braids, twists, dreadlocks, or straightened temporarily, this day is about celebrating diversity, self-expression, and cultural heritage. It also challenges unfair treatment and stereotypes.

This year’s theme, “Learning, Creating, Uniting,” invites children to explore the cultural significance of Afro hair. They will understand its history and recognise the beauty of all Black hair textures. As part of the celebrations, schools can take part in The Big WAD Lesson — a 30-minute interactive lesson with a film and quiz aimed at setting a Guinness World Record for the largest cultural awareness lesson in 24 hours.

Why World Afro Day Matters

Founded in 2017 by Michelle De Leon, World Afro Day exists to:

Celebrate all forms of Afro hair and the cultural identity it represents.
Promote positive attitudes and challenge unfair beauty standards.
Encourage self-expression and individuality in children and adults.
Advocate for laws protecting people from hair-based discrimination. The guiding principle is: “Fix the Law, Not Our Hair.”

Explaining Hair Discrimination to Children

Sometimes, people with Afro-textured hair are treated unfairly simply because their hair is curly, coiled, or worn in certain styles like Afros, braids, or twists. This can happen at school, at work, or in other places where adults expect hair to look a certain way.

For children, this can mean:

Being told their hair is “messy” or “not allowed” at school.
Feeling pressure to straighten or change their hair to fit in.
Experiencing teasing or negative comments about their natural hair.

Understanding the Impact of Hair Discrimination

Hair discrimination can have lasting effects on children's self-esteem and identity. It is crucial to educate children about the importance of embracing their natural hair. By fostering a positive environment, we can help them appreciate their unique beauty.

Bringing Music Into the Celebration

Music is a powerful way to connect children with the themes of World Afro Day. Here are primary-friendly, classroom-appropriate artists and videos, all celebrating Afro hair or Black culture from the UK.

🌍 Recommended Artists & Tracks

Shingai Shoniwa - Coming Home
Shingai Shoniwa, of The Noisettes, uses her natural afro as a symbol of identity, culture, and creativity. Born in London, her parents are both Zimbabweans who migrated to England. She has described her hair as “my crown” and often styles it as art, like shaping it into a heart for her album Wild Young Hearts. Her bold hairstyles celebrate Black beauty and show how hair can be a canvas for self-expression.
Myles Smith - Stargazing
Born to a British Jamaican family, Smith's hairstyle reflects his Afro-Caribbean heritage and his commitment to embracing his roots. In interviews, he has discussed the significance of his hair as a personal statement, emphasising that it represents his journey and identity. The choice to bleach his dreadlocks adds a layer of individuality, showcasing his willingness to blend tradition with contemporary style.
Fleur East - Day in LA (More and More)
Known for her appearance on "The X Factor," Fleur East has been vocal about embracing her natural hair. She has shared experiences of being discouraged from wearing her afro in the music industry and has since become an advocate for natural hair representation.
Michael Kiwanuka - I'll Get Along
English singer-songwriter Michael Kiwanuka, known for his soulful music, often embraces his natural hair, reflecting his Afro-British identity. His appearance and music resonate with themes of self-discovery and cultural pride.
Ayanna Witter-Johnson –Rise Up
Ayanna Witter-Johnson, a London-born cellist and vocalist of Jamaican heritage, is known for her distinctive natural hairstyle, which complements her unique blend of classical and soul music.
Guvna B
British rapper and author Guvna B has openly discussed his journey with Afro hair. He recalls childhood experiences of being teased for his natural hair and the pressure to conform. He now embraces his natural hair as a symbol of self-love and Black identity, viewing it as a form of resistance and cultural pride.

Classroom Ideas for World Afro Day

Engage with The Big WAD Lesson

Join virtually to try and break a Guinness World Record while exploring Afro hair history and cultural significance. Complete an interactive quiz as part of this engaging experience. 👉 The Big WAD Lesson

Incorporate Music & Movement

Play the above songs for movement breaks, dance, discussions, or listening/watching response activities. Music can enhance the learning experience and create a lively classroom atmosphere.

Encourage Art & Writing

Children can create posters, poems, or short stories celebrating their identity or the diversity of hair textures. This creative expression allows them to reflect on their experiences and feelings.

Facilitate Discussion & Reflection

Use this BBC Newsround clip to aid discussions in class. It can serve as a starting point for conversations about hair discrimination and the importance of embracing diversity.

Conclusion: Celebrating Unity and Diversity

World Afro Day 2025 is about learning, creating, and uniting — through music, conversation, and celebration. By bringing classroom-friendly Afro-inspired music into your lessons, you can help pupils experience pride, joy, and understanding while celebrating the beauty of all Black hair. It is essential to treat everyone fairly, no matter their hair type.

Learn more about the World Afro Day Legacy here: World Afro Day Legacy