Sweet Briar's Black Student Alliance emphasizing self-care this Black History Month

In a virtual "Kinks & Kurls" event Friday for students, the BSA focused on celebrating and exploring the diverse varieties, textures and styles of hair.

"Hair is an extension of who I am," Barry said. "It's an extension of my voice; it's an extension of my identity."

"Leadership is so rooted in not only what we do for ourselves but what we do for others," Barry said. "When we do something, and it has to be sustainable, it can only be as sustainable as the source. If in your space of activism, allyship and advocacy, you are not taking care of yourself, then you can't translate that and be able to impact people."

Friday afternoon, Barry and other members of the BSA crafted a custom hair oil — composed of a variety of oils to promote healthy hair and hair growth — for participants. The recipe, Barry said, has been passed down in the BSA for years.

"For many first-years who can't go out and buy hair products, it's something they can use," Barry said. "It's powerful; it's a way of sharing a formula, a recipe, of love."

Visit sbc.edu for the full list of upcoming events.