SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - A conversation that began that was initiated by project founder Soidi Ilis, Soidi Illis last year with students, parents and teachers is entering a new chapter as From Coils To Crowns 2 launches its mini podcast series, creating an ongoing platform for conversations around natural hair, heritage, identity and the stories behind our crowns.
Under the theme “Real Stories. Real Women. Bigger Conversations.”, the launch brought together panelists Shanella Romney-James, Peta Gaye Harriot and Maya Williams-Thomas for an intimate and engaging conversation centered around “My Crown, My Story.”
The women reflected on their earliest hair memories, perceptions of beauty, their natural hair journeys, identity and what their crowns represent to them today. Their honesty, vulnerability and shared experiences set the tone for a podcast series designed to go beyond hair and explore the deeper conversations connected to culture, family, confidence, history and belonging.
The launch was also attended by a representative of the Department of Culture, whose presence was welcomed as the initiative continues to highlight the importance of cultural storytelling, heritage and preserving the experiences that help shape St. Maarten’s identity.
From Coils 2 Crowns began last year as a two-day experience engaging schools, students, parents and teachers in conversations around natural hair, identity, heritage and self-expression.
Both that inaugural phase and the new podcast series have been supported by Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied, enabling the initiative to continue expanding the conversation and documenting stories that connect generations.
The inaugural event also featured the “Our Hair, Our Legacy” photography portrait exhibition, led by Kenty Lichtenberg and supported by the Slavery Memorial Committee.
Through portraiture and storytelling, the exhibition provided a deeper look into heritage, ancestral lineage and the historical meaning of our hair, reinforcing the idea that Afro-textured hair represents much more than beauty or personal style—it also carries history, memory and identity.
The Conversation Continues
“The transition into a podcast allows From Coils 2 Crowns to invite more voices and perspectives into the conversation. Future episodes will explore natural hair journeys, generational experiences, cultural traditions, beauty standards, representation, confidence and identity, while encouraging audiences to reflect on their own stories and the messages passed from one generation to another” said Soidi Illis
At the heart of the initiative remains a simple belief: every crown carries a story worth hearing.
Our curls tell stories.
Our coils carry history.
Our crowns deserve celebration.
The From Coils 2 Crowns Podcast Series will continue through featured conversations, community engagement and digital storytelling, building on the foundation established last year and creating space.
