The World Natural Hair, Health & Beauty Show returned to the Georgia International Convention Center (GICC) in April, marking its highly anticipated 23rd year. Since its inception, the show has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its offerings to include an extensive schedule filled with workshops, live entertainers, group fitness classes, and more. The evolution of the show is perfectly reflected in the event’s tagline: “It’s not a hair show, it’s a movement!”
We recently had the pleasure of chatting with Taliah Waajid, the founder of the World Natural Hair, Health & Beauty Show, to learn more about her impressive career within the beauty industry and why the ATL Airport District and the GICC remain the destination and venue of choice for hosting her annual beauty show and expo.
Q: How long have you worked in the beauty industry? What inspired you to follow this career path?
Taliah: I have worked in the beauty industry for over 20 years. The inspiration that led me to follow this career path stemmed from my passion for providing high-quality products that simplify natural hair care. I also am enthusiastic about educating others on the numerous benefits of embracing and celebrating natural hair.
Q: What inspired you to launch World Natural Hair, Health and Beauty Show?
Taliah: I launched the Natural Hair Show because I wanted to provide a place where consumers, distributors, and retailers could get the latest information on the benefits of natural hair care. As the show grew, I felt it was important to expand beyond just hair and began adding more elements that spoke to information for an overall healthy lifestyle.
Q: What were your initial goals in starting the event?
Taliah: The goal was to educate on the benefits of natural, chemical-free hair care. I hoped that women would stop using relaxers as the only form of hair care and wanted them to know that there is a healthier option.
Q: 2023 marks the 23rd year of Taliah Waajid World Natural Hair, Health and Beauty Show, and the GICC has been the proud host venue every year. Why did you choose the GICC in the very beginning?
Taliah: Once the show outgrew the downtown hotel ballroom where we initially held the show, I wanted to choose a venue near the airport to accommodate our out-of-town attendees.
Q: What keeps you coming back to the GICC year after year?
Taliah: The strong relationship we have built with the team at the GICC drives our annual return. Working with such a qualified team that understands our needs and actively ensures the successful execution of our event brings us a sense of satisfaction.
Q: What are the benefits of hosting your event in the ATL Airport District?
Taliah: The assistance and partnership we receive from the ATL Airport District planning team make it feel like they are part of our team. The support they provide is so helpful to the success of our event.
Q: What have you learned along the way?
Taliah: I have gained insight into the significance of working with companies that genuinely value the business we bring to them, which also facilitates smoother operations.
Q: What do you have planned for 2024?
Taliah: For 2024, we are planning an event much bigger and better than our last with more workshops, informative panels, companies, entertainment and more.
Be sure to follow the World Natural Hair, Health & Beauty Show on Instagram and Facebook to stay in the know as plans for 2024 develop!
