Dr. Yaba Blay is a scholar-activist, public speaker, and cultural consultant whose scholarship, work and practice centers on the lived experiences of Black women and girls, with a focus on identity/body politics and beauty practices. Lauded by O Magazinefor her social media activism, Dr. Blay has launched several viral campaigns including Locs of Love, #PrettyPeriod, and #ProfessionalBlackGirl, her multi-platform digital community. She has appeared on CNN, BET, MSNBC, BBC, and NPR, and her work has been featured in The New York Times, EBONY, Essence, Fast Company, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Colorlines, and The Root. A thought leader on Black racial identity, colorism, and beauty politics, Dr. Blay is a globally sought-after speaker and consultant. and earned a Master of Arts and PhD in African American Studies (with distinction) and a Graduate Certificate in Women's Studies from Temple University. She also holds a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology from the University of New Orleans.