MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Gladys Afolayan (Calgary based) is a Afro Texture hair educator with over 20 years of industry experience. She is nationally recognized for her skill and creativity as a braiding and hair colour specialist. A certified and licensed cosmetology instructor and entrepreneur Gladys partnered with the Alberta provincial government to develop Canada’s first accredited Afro-textured hair curriculum to close the gap in the current education. As the founder of Kulture Beauty Collective and the Kulture Institute of Cosmetology, Gladys is passionate about creating inclusive experiences and interactions between stylists and clients from different cultural backgrounds.
Course Content
This course covers: 1. Introduction to locs and their cultural significance 2. Spiritual and symbolic meanings of dreadlocks across cultures 3. Cultural awareness and appropriation considerations 4. Common misconceptions and professional realities of locs Methods of installation: 1. Backcombing 2. Two-strand twist 3. Interlocking (latch hooking) 4. Palm rolling 5. Loc development stages and growth patterns 6. Maintenance techniques and retightening methods 7. Scalp care, hygiene, and product selection 8. Preventing buildup, breakage, and damage 9. The impact of social media and modern perception of locs 10. Professional consultation and client education Learning Format 1. Structured theory lessons 2. Step-by-step demonstrations 3. Hands-on practical training 4. Instructor feedback and correction Practical Application Students will: 1. Perform sectioning and parting for loc foundations 2. Practice different installation methods 3. Maintain and retighten existing locs 4. Apply proper washing and scalp care techniques 5. Diagnose and correct common loc issues 6. Build confidence working on real clients
Who This Course Is For
. Beginners interested in learning braiding techniques . Students progressing through Kulture’s structured program . Hairstylists looking to expand into protective styling . Professionals seeking to refine braiding precision and technique
About the Course
About Kulture Institute of Cosmetology Kulture Institute of Cosmetology provides structured, industry-aligned education focused on textured hair. Our programs combine cultural knowledge, technical skill, and hands-on training to develop confident, professional stylists. From guest work to professional, industry-standard career pathways. Kulture Institute of Cosmetology is redefining beauty education in Alberta, Canada. Our courses are meticulously crafted for aspiring professional stylists, beauty entrepreneurs, and individuals seeking structured cosmetology training aligned with real industry standards. Students learn both foundational and advanced hairstyling skills, client consultation, professional responsibility, and technical mastery — preparing them not just to style hair, but to build sustainable careers. In a world where the beauty standard has historically centered Eurocentric hair, Kulture Institute of Cosmetology is intentionally bridging the gap. We are bringing inclusivity, equality, and a truly diverse approach to the beauty industry. We are bringing balance. Our graduates are trained to confidently work with all hair types, while placing strong emphasis on mastering the art, design, science, and technical skill behind Afro-textured hair. We believe excellence means understanding texture in its full spectrum — straight, wavy, curly, coily, and everything in between. In institutions where straight hair has traditionally been the dominant educational focus, Kulture Institute of Cosmetology introduces balance, uniformity, and true industry readiness in a world of diversity. We are not replacing standards. We are expanding them. What Our Students Master: Hair cutting (one-length, layered, precision, textured & advanced techniques) Afro-textured hair science & styling mastery Silk press & heat science Braiding, cornrows, locs & protective styling Weave installations, closures & extensions Scalp health, dandruff science & traction awareness Chemical bonds & heat transformation science Client consultation & professional ethics Infection control & industry safety standards Portfolio development & career pathway preparation Our mission is simple: To graduate confident, skilled, and culturally competent professionals who are ready to serve a diverse community with excellence. Join us for a fulfilling and rewarding career path in the world of hairstyling!
Ready to Transform Your Career?
Begin your journey into professional braiding and protective styling with hands-on, structured training
$165.00 / month with 14 day free trial