The internet is abuzz with New York and Los Angeles based artist Benny Harlem and his daughter Jaxyn, who flaunt almost identical heads of hair in their social media photo shares, which have attracted over 143K followers. Media outlets have taken notice, and Harlem has been gracious and inspiring in the interviews he has granted.
Speaking to The Huffington Post, Harlem said he and Jaxyn decided to share their special bond on social media to “bring that feeling of family and fatherhood back,” inspired by the TV sitcom shows he grew up watching.
“Social media had become the new nightly show so I want to put positivity on the mind of our fathers. We are the foundation behind the future,” he said, hoping the images will help his daughter to love herself, adding, “As a woman, she needs to know how to believe in herself first before anyone or anything.”
Harlem told XO Necole that he puts his daughter on a pedestal and wants to act as a positive role model for her at all times.
“What my daughter knows is that if she loves herself first, love will align in her friendships, relationships, and all aspects of her life,” he said, “She’s a beautiful girl who’s gonna be a pretty woman, but I teach her to love herself first. She doesn’t need to seek that in a man or from watching TV or her friends. I teach her to walk in her natural elegance, and I make it a point to show her that she’s protected daily. That way, she remains fearless.”
Encouraging Jaxyn to embrace her natural hair just like her dad is part of that daily message of self-respect and self-love.
“I don’t think the movement of men growing their hair is as big as it can be, but I’m hoping more men will find pride in growing their hair out and wearing it as a crown of glory…you look in the mirror and you see your crown,” he told PAPER magazine. “I don’t see myself cutting it, but things happen and things change. I don’t know if I would do that, but I don’t want to speak too soon, either.”
This father of two daughters is very appreciative. See more incredible shots below:
