BABE Braids And Business Education

B.A.B.E. began in the summer of 2018 as a small, home-based braid camp through Mrs. Dee’s business, Xpression Hair Studio, after a young client suggested she teach other girls how to braid. That one conversation sparked something special, serving up to 10 girls per summer, but since 2024, the program has grown to serve over 100+ students and connect with multiple communities and organizations across the Treasure Coast.

“I’ve had a passion of braiding since I was roughly 12 years old. Sitting in my aunt Lois’s house as she styled clients, inhaling the aroma of Mrs. Annette’s house from the chemicals used to slay curls and Sunday mornings at my mom’s or grandmother’s house in the kitchen, by the stove just made it clear to me that I wanted in on the beauty industry. Braiding is pretty much a rite of passage in the Black community, so it’s only right that I share one of the beauty’s of my culture and what has brought me so much joy.” says Mrs. Dee.

Through B.A.B.E., Mrs. Dee has built more than a braiding camp—she’s created a movement. The organization is dedicated to teaching braid techniques while also instilling values of confidence, faith, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Students, ranging in age from 10 to 16, not only learn the art of braiding but also explore marketing, customer service, and entrepreneurial thinking.

About B.A.B.E. (Braids And Business Education):

B.A.B.E. was born out of a vision to equip young girls with more than just a hairstyle— apart of our mission is to braid together culture, confidence, creativity, and career-readiness. As a former licensed braid stylist, business management major, turned educator, B.A.B.E. was founded to bridge the gap between braids, beauty, and business for youth who often don’t get access to early financial literacy, entrepreneurship, or mentorship opportunities.

B.A.B.E. was launched the summer of 2018 catering to the youth ages 10-16 but over the past 7 years, it’s grown into a transformative program that prepares students—from elementary to high school—for real life after graduation.

Impact by the Numbers:
• In the 2025 graduating class alone, 4 of our 6 Braid-Off Competition winners came from this year’s cohort—a testament to their skill, dedication, and confidence.
• In the past year alone, we’ve served over 150+ youth, compared to just 8–10 girls per summer when we first began.
• We’ve proudly partnered with the Banner Lake Club to offer fresh, innovative programming for their youth, as well as Treasure Coast Barbers United for the 2024 WPBF News Back To School Supply Drive, and we’ve been contracted with both the City of Stuart and the Boys & Girls Club of St. Lucie County to extend our reach.

Class Details:
B.A.B.E. hosts seasonal summer Braid Camps, focused on various braid techniques, financial literacy, marketing, customer service, and faith building. We believe in preparing youth for adulthood by giving them both technical skills and life-ready tools.

We’re hoping to host our next 2 day workshop session in the Fall 2025.

Alumni & Community:
Our impact doesn’t stop at graduation. Recently, one of our B.A.B.E. alumni returned home from FAMU to help teach and mentor the next wave of students. We’ve had several students launch their own braid businesses or enter beauty industry careers with confidence—knowing that Mrs. Dee and the B.A.B.E. family are always just a phone call away.

Why Support Matters:
Financial backing is critical for us to continue expanding access, offering scholarships, covering supplies, and training alumni. With more support, we can bring B.A.B.E. into more schools, more cities, and into the hands of more students who just need the chance to shine.