By Funsho Arogundade
It was a mix of creativity, resilience and community spirit inside the popular City Walk Hotel in Ondo Town last week as Caroline Tope Ejibune, CEO of Carolaura Hairs, embarked on a groundbreaking Guinness World Record attempt. Tagged ‘Hair-a-thon by Carolaura’, the 24-hour record-breaking hairstyling marathon was officially concluded in spectacular fashion, marking an historic and transformative moment for the boisterous ancient town of Ondo.
The momentous event drew an array of dignitaries including Oba Dr. Adesimbo Kiladejo, Jilo III, the Osemawe and Paramount Ruler of Ondo Kingdom. The highly revered monarch was ably represented by Chief Benson Akinkuolie, the Itagbuyi of Ondo Kingdom, whose presence reinforced the cultural significance of the achievement. Hon. Abiola Makinde, a ranking member of the House of Representatives representing Ondo East/West Federal Constituency stood by to support his constituent while Rt. Hon. Oladiji Olamide Adesanmi, Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly reinforced the importance of the Hair-a-thon to the state by being physically present at the event. Pastor Ayodele Emmanuel of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG The Expression Church, provided spiritual guidance, ensuring a solid foundation of faith throughout the hairstyling marathon.
Aside from the friends, family, and the vibrant Ondo community who rallied behind the initiative, showcasing the power of unity and collective action, the remarkable milestone was made possible through the collective efforts of numerous individuals and organizations including media partners, MCs, DJs, and social media influencers. They all played an instrumental role in amplifying the event’s reach, drawing global attention and uniting supporters across various platforms.
Carolaura shared her heartfelt appreciation saying “This event has shown that no dream is too big and no community too small to make an impact on the global stage. I am eternally grateful to my parents, pastor, friends, team members, the Ondo Kingdom and everyone who supported this journey. Together, we made history.”