I'm Mariama (MA-ree-AM-ma), Marietou's sister-in-law. In the afternoon, I often sit with my sisters in the courtyard and braid their hair.

 Here in Senegal, hair care is an important part of good grooming. Almost every family has one person who is great with hair. In this family, it's me.

 Often my sisters bring me fashion magazines for inspiration. Some elaborate hairdos take so long that we take turns working on them.

 Because Tabaski is our most important holiday, everyone tries to look their best. Most people wear new clothes. A woman often wears a grand boubou - a huge, richly hued, flowing robe, embroidered with flowers or geometric patterns. An older woman always wears a matching headcloth, tied in her own special way. A young woman goes with her head bare to show off her hairdo. 

Photograph from Africa: One Continent. Many Worlds. traveling exhibit. Used with permission. 

jca