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Jess Martinez: Holder of the World’s Largest Afro Record
Jess Martinez, a New York-based advocate and digital creator, has earned a remarkable place in the Guinness World Records by claiming the title for the World’s Largest Afro. Her hair was officially measured at 29 cm in height, 31 cm in width, and an astounding 190 cm in total circumference. Jess described the moment of recognition as surreal at first, but it quickly became an unforgettable milestone in her life.
A Legacy of Natural Hair Champions
Jess is only the second woman to hold this prestigious record, succeeding Aevin Dugas, who initially set the benchmark in 2010. Aevin was later honored as a Guinness World Records ICON in 2025 for her influential work promoting body positivity and the acceptance of natural hair. By joining this lineage, Jess continues to elevate the global dialogue surrounding cultural identity, representation, and the beauty of natural hair.
Balancing Advocacy and Personal Branding
Beyond her public recognition, Jess dedicates herself to criminal justice advocacy and manages her own brand, Somebody’s Auntie. Encouraged persistently by her online followers, she finally decided to submit her afro for official measurement. The process demanded meticulous care, patience, and teamwork to ensure every curl was accurately recorded.
Overcoming Hair Struggles and Embracing Natural Beauty
Jess’s journey with her hair has been complex. During her childhood, managing her natural curls was often a challenge, and frequent salon visits sometimes left her feeling disheartened. She recounted how the use of chemical relaxers, intended to simplify styling, ultimately caused damage and diminished her confidence.
Gradually, Jess returned to embracing her natural hair texture, witnessing her curls regain vitality and strength. This personal transformation not only boosted her self-esteem but also inspired her mother to adopt locs, marking a shared family journey toward hair authenticity that culminated in Jess’s record-breaking achievement.
Reflections on Breaking the Record
Reflecting on her accomplishment, Jess shared, “When I learned I had broken the record, I was stunned-it didn’t immediately feel real. Seeing someone who looks like me, with hair like mine, in the Guinness World Records is truly extraordinary.”
She further expressed, “I also felt a deep sense of pride because it reminded me that I am capable of overcoming challenges. Sticking with this journey has made me believe I can accomplish anything.”
Inspiring Confidence and Challenging Hair Bias
Jess announced her record-breaking news on Instagram, describing her afro as a powerful emblem of authenticity and self-expression. She hopes her achievement encourages others to embrace their natural hair with confidence, confront societal stereotypes, and continue advocating against hair discrimination.
