Why did you choose the name Ikala Ngita?

In Madagascar, “Ngita” means kinky.

At one time, kinky, curly, or simply textured hair was not always the most valued. Having straight hair often seemed more “presentable,” easier to accept in certain circles.

I saw many women around me straightening or relaxing their hair. My aunts used chemical relaxers, hot combs… Back then, there was more talk of disciplining or hiding one’s natural texture than of taking care of it.

In everyday language in Madagascar, as soon as someone doesn’t have completely straight hair, you might hear:
“Ngitangita volo.”

An expression used to refer to textured hair.

That is where the name Ikala Ngita was born.

Not as an opposition to straight hair or protective styles. But rather as a way to give natural textures a place again, with more gentleness, understanding, and pride.

Today, things are thankfully evolving. More and more women are learning to love their textures, their volume, and their natural hair.

And this is also the vision I wanted to convey through Ikala Ngita 🤎

 Be proud of your hair, be Ikala Ngita