bernice bennet

As the proud mother of three successful sons, including a set of twins, l admire their entrepreneurial skills and their work ethic as African American men.
I was raised with three sisters and we were fashionably and impeccably dressed our entire lives. Our mom was an expert seamstress whose company created all of the fashions for Seventeen Magazine. . One of my dresses sewn by my mom has been on tour in an Exhibition since 2019. l actually modeled that dress as a Grandassa Model in a Naturally show in 1968.
My introduction to AJASS and the Grandassa Models happened when an attempt to color my hair had turned into a disaster. Black Rose, who cut off most of my hair and then styled it into a very short natural hairstyle, suggested that l get in touch with Kwame and Elombe who were looking for women to join the Grandassa Models.
My immediate family and Black people in my immediate environment reacted negatively but oddly enough, white people were complementary and supportive of my natural hair.
Modeling in the show gave me a sense of self confidence and pride. I felt so very comfortable with my hair and skin color. Looking at the other models affirmed me.
Even though l had always worn beautiful clothes, for the first time l really felt attractive and I could walk around proudly.