Tywanna "Ari"

Tywanna 'Ari' founded NuBginNs Natural Hair and Wellness Center on Chicago's West Side, where she owns the business and also styles clients. With nearly 40 years in the hair industry, she became a licensed cosmetologist and then shifted toward natural hair care after seeing chemical treatments harm hair; that focus is still her main specialty. Her services include workshops, classes and one-on-one training.

Her credentials include certification as a braid teacher and natural hair instructor, certification as a Kemetic Yoga Instructor, and a C.E.U. sponsor credential in Illinois. She teaches yoga and meditation classes and has studied naturopathic health. She has collaborated with Biostrand Products Company on research and development and has worked with Organic Root Stimulator as a natural hair platform artist. She has taught and spoken at natural hair care events across Chicago and has joined forums, panels and workshops on the subject.

She belongs to the Illinois Association of Hair Braiders, has helped people obtain the Illinois Braiders License, and serves on the board of the Natural Hair Professionals Coalition. She received the Master Pioneer of Natural Hair Award in New York City in 2017. She educates and supports clients who choose to wear their natural hair.