Starla, interview. Moving from Belize to LA...

1. Can you introduce yourself and share a little about your journey from Belize to Los Angeles and how hair became part of your story?

Hi everyone, I’m Belizean BraidsDoc.; a passionate hairstylist Originally from the beautiful rural village of Barranco, Belize– now building my dream and brand in Los Angeles.
My journey has been filled with faith, growth, sacrifice, and determination. Moving from Belize to LA taught me resilience and showed me the importance of believing in yourself even when starting over in a completely new environment.

Hair became part of my story at a very young age. What started as creativity and love for styling slowly turned into a true passion and purpose. Over the years, I realized hair is so much more than just beauty — it’s confidence, self-expression, healing, and culture. Being able to help people feel beautiful and confident in themselves is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.

For over 13 years, I’ve dedicated myself to perfecting my craft, learning new techniques, and making hair health a priority while creating styles that make my clients feel their best. Every braid, part, and style tells a story, and I’m grateful that my journey from Belize to Los Angeles allowed me to turn something I love into something that impacts others every single day.

This is only the beginning, and I’m excited for everything still to come.

2. Growing up in Belize, what were some of the natural hair traditions or beauty routines you remember most?

In Belize, our childhood was marked by an affinity for natural hair care practices rooted in simplicity, cultural heritage, and resourcefulness. Many households opted for traditional methods utilizing natural oils and homemade routines passed down through generations. Common beauty and hair traditions included: Utilizing coconut oil for various purposes such as scalp treatments, hair growth, and skin care, with fresh coconut oil being a staple in many homes. Incorporating protective styles like braids, cornrows, plaits, and twists into daily life, particularly for school and managing hair in hot and humid climates. Applying aloe vera directly from the plant to moisturize hair, soothe the scalp, and strengthen edges. Utilizing pressing combs for special occasions and Prioritizing community involvement in beauty routines, where hair represented care, pride, creativity, and more.

In many Belizean households, hair care felt personal and cultural at the same time. It was less about trends and more about maintenance, tradition, and expression.

3. What inspired you to become a braider, and when did you realize hair was more than just styling for you?

With roots in the charming rural village of Barranco, Belize, I was nurtured in a culture that celebrated hair as an integral component of creativity and everyday life. From a young age, I was drawn to the art of hairstyling, beginning with braiding dolls and later honing my skills on my own hair during high school. This passion eventually led me to pursue a career in professional hairstyling, where I found immense joy in making others feel beautiful. However, it was not until I witnessed the profound effects of hairstyling on my clients' confidence, happiness, and self-love that I realized the true significance of this craft. As a braider, I have come to understand that my role extends beyond mere hairstyling – it is about connecting with people, showcasing my artistic expression, and fostering a sense of well-being in others.

4. How did moving to Los Angeles influence your approach to beauty, braiding, and caring for natural hair?

Relocating to Los Angeles enhanced my creative vision and taught me to strike a balance between stylish trends and healthy hair care practices. Exposure to diverse cultures and beauty influences enabled me to become a more adaptable and focused professional, prioritizing hair health while empowering clients to feel confident and beautiful.

5. What challenges have you faced as a braider and entrepreneur, and what keeps you motivated to keep going?

As a seasoned braider and entrepreneur, I have encountered one of the most significant hurdles to be striking a balance between unleashing creativity and managing the business aspect while maintaining consistency amidst prolonged working hours and exhaustion. My driving force stems from a deep passion for natural hair, empowering clients with confidence, and continually expanding my brand and enterprise.

6. How did you first discover Righteous Roots, and what made you continue using it in your personal routine and on your clients?

My introduction to Righteous Roots stemmed from recommendations within natural hair care communities on social media and fellow stylists. The product's ability to consistently yield stronger, healthier hair with less breakage and improved moisture levels has made it a staple for both my clients and my own hair care regimen.

7. As a braider, what sets Righteous Roots apart from other oils you’ve tried over the years?

Righteous Roots excels due to its lightweight and deeply nourishing composition, which reduces itching, fosters growth, and ensures a moisturized scalp, all without making braids feel unduly greasy or heavy, setting it apart from numerous other oils.

For optimal scalp health, I apply Righteous Roots directly to the scalp, then reapply every few days between appointments to keep the scalp moisturized, minimize itchiness, and encourage healthy growth without residue buildup.

9. What kind of results have you or your clients noticed after consistently using Righteous Roots?

Over time, clients often observe a decrease in scalp itching, less dryness, and healthier-looking hair growth. Furthermore, a significant number of clients report that their hair feels more resilient, softer, and retains moisture more effectively between styles.

10. For women trying to grow healthier hair while wearing protective styles, what advice would you give them and why do you believe scalp care matters so much?

 To maintain a healthy scalp, it is advisable to prioritize cleanliness, moisture, and a relaxed fit while utilizing protective styles. Regular scalp massage and oil application stimulate blood flow, promoting healthy growth, whereas buildup prevention averts clogged follicles that hinder progress. Scalp care is crucial as healthy hair originates from the root; an irritated, dry, or congested scalp prevents strong hair growth regardless of styling.