TUCO reveals The Black Rapunzel

She has also appeared in Ripley’s Believe it or Not. Mandela let down her locks for the audience and gave them a little history about her “baby”. She has been growing her hair for 31 years and the longest lock measures 92 feet in length. All together it weighs over 40 pounds. She says she never was interested in any world record, but saw her hair as spiritual.

The record came years later. Mandela also has her own line of hair products.

The event was organised by TUCO’s Hospitality Committee, and held at its Business Unit courtyard, Jerningham Avenue, Belmont. It featured a fashion show of African wear from designers Claire Hutchinson, Prindela’s, Norma Clarke and Garcia’s Africa House. There was also a cultural section with African drumming.

Patrons were treated to traditional African dishes while viewing the fashion show.