Get ready to be inspired! The 21Ninety Awards are back, and this year, they’re shining a spotlight on the incredible individuals who are truly making waves in the world of beauty and wellness. Forget products for a moment; this year is all about the people – the innovators, the educators, and the community builders who are creating space, confidence, and representation for Black women everywhere.
Celebrating Excellence in Natural and Protective Hairstyling
Within the highly competitive Beauty category, the award for Best Natural Hair or Protective Stylist is a huge honor. It recognizes those who are not just styling hair but redefining how we care for and celebrate textured hair. These hairstyles are more than just trends; they’re powerful expressions of heritage, resilience, and creativity. Let’s meet the talented individuals who are setting new standards!
First Place: Kenidia D Quinones (Curling Me Krazy)
Based in Florida, Kenidia D Quinones, widely known as Curling Me Krazy, is a force to be reckoned with in natural hair styling and education. She’s built an amazing platform dedicated to celebrating curls in all their unique glory. Through her engaging videos featuring precision cuts, curl definition techniques, and styling tutorials, Kenidia has become a trusted voice.
Her personal journey with natural hair started with a bold act of self-acceptance: shaving her head ten years ago. “I felt confident enough to say, ‘This is who I am, this is my essence, this is my culture, my roots. Why not share it with the world?’” she shared. Kenidia’s philosophy champions freedom of expression, reminding us that beauty comes in many forms – braids, sleek ponytails, or glorious curls.
Beyond her styling prowess, Kenidia actively gives back to her community with Curlsgiving, an annual event focused on education and connection for natural hair enthusiasts. Her next big goal? To teach and inspire others to pursue this work with the same passion, helping more people feel amazing in their natural state.
Second Place: Esther Etienne
Miami-born stylist and entrepreneur Esther Etienne brings precision, innovation, and empowerment to her craft. As the owner of Etienne Glamour Salon Suites in Atlanta, she’s created a luxurious, private styling experience for clients and a supportive environment for other beauty professionals to grow their businesses.
Esther’s path wasn’t always clear; she started doing hair for friends and family before cosmetology school. “Once I became pregnant, it forced me to become more independent,” she explained. “I started doing hair at home, never thinking it would grow this big.”
Her signature seamless closure sew-ins and invisible part installs have garnered a loyal following. What sets her apart is her commitment to hair health, blending the polish of protective styling with the integrity of natural strands. Through Etienne Glamour, she’s not just a stylist but a mentor, embodying a modern vision of beauty entrepreneurship.
Third Place: Aisha Strickland
Chicago-based stylist and educator Aisha Strickland is a leading voice for women with tight curl textures. As the founder of Black Girl Curls and co-creator of Black Curl Magic, her mission is to simplify natural hair care and celebrate the full spectrum of curls, especially those often overlooked.
Aisha’s expertise lies in bridging professional techniques with accessible education. “Being recognized in this way means so much,” she told 21Ninety. “Not just for me personally, but for the entire community of Black folks who have fallen in love with, learned to care for, and now confidently show up in the hair that grows from their scalp.” She sees this recognition as a significant shift in self-perception and how the world views Black hair.
Her journey began as a beauty blogger, fueled by frustration with lengthy wash days after transitioning from relaxed hair. This led her to beauty school to truly understand hair. Through her salon, The Curl Society Studio, and her digital platforms, Aisha offers styling, workshops, and resources that demystify textured hair care for clients and stylists alike.
Looking ahead, Aisha is expanding her reach with beginner-friendly guides for naturals and a dedicated digital community for professionals called The Tight Curl Pro Exchange. She’s also planning in-person workshops for 2026, aiming to further bridge education, culture, and confidence in natural hair care.
Redefining Black Hair Care, Online and Off
Kenidia D Quinones, Esther Etienne, and Aisha Strickland are more than just stylists; they are innovators, educators, and community builders. Their recognition at the 21Ninety Awards highlights a crucial shift towards celebrating the people who empower Black women through beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. Their artistry and dedication are truly redefining the landscape of Black hair care.
Which of these incredible stylists inspires you the most? Have you tried any of their techniques or products? Let us know in the comments below!