Today we’d like to introduce you to Janel Caminos
Hi Janel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey began in college when I started to embrace my natural curls, driven by a desire to create spaces where women with curly hair could feel empowered. As an AfroLatina, I understood the importance of representation and often found myself as the only woman of color with curly hair in the room.
I started my blog, Rizos Travel, in 2020 to encourage women to explore the world while embracing their natural beauty. This platform quickly grew, leading me to host monthly curly girl meetups with local businesses and brands.
In 2023, I expanded Rizos Travel and launched Curly Crown Collective, a niche community of curly-haired women from diverse backgrounds that promotes self-love and hair empowerment. We connect curly-haired entrepreneurs, professionals, creatives, and influencers through exclusive events and hair education, advocating for natural hair acceptance and ending hair discrimination.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Going against established beauty standards is challenging, especially when there’s a lack of education and limited hair products for natural hair. The curly hair community is small and we all share similar struggles. At the Curly Crown Collective, we provide a space where Curlfriends can connect and support each other.
Building a community is difficult and finding funding has been even more challenging. Hosting events requires a significant amount of time and resources. I’ve been applying for grants, business loans, and entering pitch competitions. Winning the pitch competition during Black Entrepreneurs Week in December 2023 was a pivotal moment—it confirmed that there’s a real need for a community like Curly Crown Collective.
I’m building a collective and looking for passionate curly girls who are excited to host events and meetups. I’m seeking individuals who can bring diverse experiences that we can support, uplift, and expand together.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a corporate-prenuer. I’m proud to be the Chief Curly Officer of Curly Crown Collective but I’m also a certified diversity professional working in Tech, where I manage and lead diversity programs. One of my personal focuses is bringing awareness to the CROWN Act, which fights against hair discrimination. I’ve hosted events at work to discuss this important issue and proudly wear my natural hair in professional settings, including on my LinkedIn profile.
What sets me apart is my commitment to encouraging other women to embrace their natural hair in the workplace and all spaces. I want to see more women rocking their curls confidently. I’m most proud of creating spaces where women feel empowered to show up as their true selves, regardless of societal beauty standards.
I’m excited to host my biggest event yet in partnership with AfroTech this November! Curly Girls in Tech brunch mixer will bring together curly and natural-haired women in tech for networking and exclusive connections with beauty brands. Tickets are available now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/curly-girls-in-tech-tickets-974387899437
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice for those just starting out on their natural hair journey is to join a community like ours. The Curly Crown Collective is a safe space for women who want to embrace their natural curls but don’t know where to begin. It’s important to stop putting toxic chemicals in your hair and start embracing your natural beauty.
In our community, we share educational resources, provide support, and connect you directly with brands that cater to your natural hair needs. You don’t have to go through this journey alone—there’s a whole community ready to support you every step of the way. Meet your Curlfriends at Curly Crown Collective! Join our community app: https://curly-col.mn.co/share/oT-5qHinMkQtdtrF?utm_source=manual
Contact Info:
- Website: https://curlycrowncollective.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curlycrowncollective/
- Other: https://curly-col.mn.co/landing?space_id=14704866
