Jessica Martinez, a 29-year-old New Yorker and nonprofit worker, has set a new Guinness World Record for the world’s largest Afro, with a circumference measuring an astonishing 190 centimeters (about 6 feet 3 inches).
Guinness announced the achievement on Wednesday, officially surpassing the previous record set in 2010 by Aevin Dugas, whose Afro measured 165 centimeters.
A Journey of Natural Hair Pride
Martinez stopped using chemical relaxers at age 12. Over two decades, her natural curls flourished into the massive Afro that now holds a global title.
Last month, a Guinness adjudicator visited her home to conduct the measurement — a process that required two assistants to help manage the hair.
> “He couldn’t do it by himself,” Martinez said, describing how surreal the moment felt. “It’s not every day that an Afro is celebrated.”
For her, the record represents far more than personal achievement. It symbolizes resistance against the long history of discrimination against Black hair — from early 20th-century straightening practices to modern-day workplace pressures.
Black Hair, Bias, and the Crown Act
According to a 2019 Dove study, many Black women reported altering their natural hair to meet workplace expectations and described their texture as being perceived as “unprofessional.”
Though numerous U.S. states have passed versions of the Crown Act — legislation banning discrimination based on natural hair — protections still do not exist at the federal level.
Martinez, who frequently shares natural hair content online, said she is familiar with both harmless curiosity and subtle bias.
> “I can tell the difference between microaggressions and curiosity,” she explained.
“Some people still view the Afro as unkempt… Natural hair is a lifestyle. It’s not a trend, and it shouldn’t be policed.”
How She Decided to Break the Record
The idea came unexpectedly after she posted a video of her hair on Instagram in 2023. Commenters urged her to pursue the world record.
Curious and motivated, she began the lengthy application process:
First, she submitted evidence to prove she could potentially break the record.
After a three-month review, Guinness approved her attempt.
She was then given one year to officially meet the criteria.
The process took over 12 months.
What She Hopes Her Record Will Inspire
Martinez said she wants her achievement to send a message of empowerment to people with textured hair.
“I want people to feel like their hair is not a burden,” she said. “I believe the bigger, the better.”
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