On Father’s Day this year, GK* thought he was in for the usual thoughtful gift from his wife — a keepsake, perhaps, or something sentimental. Instead, he unwrapped tickets to an event called Beer & Braids. “She had me at beer,” he joked. But when he arrived at 254 Brewing Company in Kikuyu town, Kiambu County, the sight of mannequin heads lined up on tables nearly sent him running. “I had focused on the beer part and forgotten the braids bit!”

What GK stumbled into was part of a growing movement redefining fatherhood in Kenya. Organised by the League of Fathers (LoF), a community of more than 1,000 dads, Beer & Braids was no ordinary Father’s Day outing. It was a workshop where men learned to braid their daughters’ hair, a skill once seen as the preserve of mothers, while enjoying camaraderie, craft beer, and a safe space to embrace vulnerability.

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From Nairobi to London, Sydney, and Toronto, similar events are springing up, reflecting a global shift: dads are stepping into roles once shaped by rigid gender norms, proving that fatherhood today is as much about presence and care as it is about provision.

For local dads such as Danny Namegabe, a proud father to a pre-teen daughter, the event was both timely and exciting. While he had some experience with ponytails and brushing hair, he admits the workshop unlocked a new level.

New Content Item (1) — Danny Namegabe, father of one and participant at the Father's Day Beer & Braids event in Kikuyu, Kiambu County.

Photo credit: Pool

“I have always enjoyed taking care of my daughter’s hair. But beyond combing and brushing, I didn’t really know how to do much else until I showed up.”

For Danny and 29 other fathers at the sold-out event, this was not the typical Father’s Day affair. Beer & Braids offered practical hair care lessons in a relaxed atmosphere complete with laughter, good company, and a few beers.

Joshua Pollard, founder of the League of Fathers, during the Beer & Braids Father's Day event in Kikuyu, Kiambu County.

Photo credit: Pool

League of Fathers founder Joshua Pollard explained the motivation: “Fatherhood deserves more recognition than it often gets. A lot of dads want to be more involved with their children, but they don’t always know where to start. Beer & Braids was not just about learning to braid hair. It was about creating a space where dads could learn together, build confidence, and realise they don’t have to figure fatherhood out on their own.”

New Content Item (1) — Lionel Delorie attended the Beer & Braids workshop organised by the League of Fathers

Lionel Delorie, another participant, echoed this sentiment. “To fathers, asking for help doesn’t come naturally. We were raised to hide our emotions, never admit when we’re struggling, and always appear strong. That’s why communities like the League of Fathers matter. They create a safe, judgment-free space where dads can learn, be vulnerable, and support one another.”

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The workshop was guided by professional stylist Joanna Richard, known as Joey, who patiently walked dads through the basics — from combing and parting hair to tying ponytails and experimenting with beginner braids. “Some of them came in not knowing how to tie a ponytail or make two sections down the middle. But the way they showed up for their daughters and opened themselves up to helping out in this way was so wholesome and meaningful,” she said.

For Joseph Mutiga, who has always kept a clean-shaven look, the experience was eye-opening. “This was a chance to appreciate the time and effort mums and single dads put into daily grooming. Knowing how to make the hair can really untangle your day when the missus is away.”

Joseph Mutiga took part in the Beer & Braids workshop aimed at helping fathers learn basic hair care skills.

Photo credit: Pool

By the end of the session, many dads left with more than just new skills. They carried a renewed sense of involvement in their children’s lives. Danny summed it up: “Braiding was a fantastic moment for me and my daughter. She was very happy, and more so because it was her first time getting a hairstyle from daddy. After that success, we added beads to the braids, which both of us were proud of. School was very fun that day.”

For the League of Fathers, Beer & Braids was part of a bigger mission: to make dads more present, capable, and intentional. The impressive turnout proved that more men are embracing fatherhood beyond traditional roles, learning that small acts of care — like braiding hair — can leave lasting memories.

Looking ahead, the League plans to build on this momentum. Alumni from the first workshop will mentor new participants in Beer & Braids 2, creating a cycle of shared knowledge and support that extends far beyond a single afternoon.

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jngari@ke.nationmedia.com