Founder Story
Hi, I'm Lakeri. Ugandan-Irish Australian, born and raised in Naarm/Melbourne.
For years, I struggled to find quality, affordable beauty products that ticked all my boxes. Brands that weren't harmful to people or the planet. And the salons? Hit-or-miss, often leaving me feeling unheard or disappointed.
I've always been someone who sees what's missing and likes to create solutions. I've explored different business ideas over the years, each one teaching me something and bringing me closer to my calling. ROOTS is that calling.
The spark came during my first trip around Africa. Being immersed in my culture, it shifted something in me. I came home craving deeper connection with more people like me.
I started thinking about others who might feel disconnected, like me. People seeking connection and representation.
ROOTS is for you. For us. For the spaces we deserve.
Our Symbol
The Funtumfunefu Denkyemfunefu (pronounced phonetically) symbol in our logo represents two Siamese crocodiles sharing one stomach. This Adinkra symbol from Ghana symbolises unity in diversity, a reminder that while we may come from different backgrounds and experiences, we share common needs and destinies.
It embodies ROOTS' mission: building community across the diverse cultures of Australia, & the World.
Brand Story
Why ROOTS Exists
ROOTS Culture Collective was born from frustration: finding quality products and professional hairdressers for textured hair in Australia shouldn't be this hard.
For those of us with curly, coily hair or deeper skin tones, the options are limited, expensive, or full of chemicals we don't want on our bodies. The products we find are often from corporations that don't represent us, understand us, or share our values.
But ROOTS is about more than products.
We centre POC-owned brands because representation matters. We stock natural, ethical products because our bodies and the planet deserve better. We donate 5% of profits to African Australian charity, Afri-Aus Care, because we believe in making a difference.
This is just the beginning. ROOTS starts online, but the vision is a physical salon and community space. A place that honours the role self-care plays in our wellbeing, especially for multicultural communities who often lack the access, time, or spaces to prioritise it.
This is for anyone tired of settling. Tired of limited options and misaligned values. Tired of funding corporations that don't consider us. For those seeking connection, community, and products that actually work.
Welcome.