5.4. Angelica Castillo Balanta: Colombia. Norway
My African AestheticPlay episode
Show notes
Angelica Maria Castillo Balanta, founder of Miss Balanta Turbans & Headwear, takes us through her life across continents, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of adapting to new cultures. From the lively salsa capital of Cali in Colombia, Panama, Barcelona, and finally to Norway, her journey highlights the essence of community ties that transcend borders. She underscores the significance of building a supportive network and maintaining connections with the Colombian community and other Black friends as this has been pivotal in preserving her cultural identity and authentic self-expression.
Angelica also reflects on the symbolism of turbans, not just as a fashion statement but as a cultural and political emblem uniting the African diaspora and allowing them to trace their ancestry- an exploration of African aesthetics that led to recognition at the Smithsonian's African History Museum.
Instagram: @missbalanata
Miss Balanta was featured in the “In Slavery’s Wake” exhibition at the Smithsonian's African History Museum. https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/exhibitions/in-slaverys-wakeSupport the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic
Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/
