I'm currently working on my Master's in English and was looking into teaching English as a foreign language overseas when finished. However, many of the job boards and informative sites specify that teachers abroad should look "professional." Now I know that many professionals have dreadlocks in various occupations. However, opinions of dreadlocks vary in different parts of the U.S. alone, so surely they would differ in different parts of the world. Are there any areas or countries that are more dread-friendly than others? I've heard certain parts of of Asia are not dread-friendly, but wasn't sure if this was accurate or not. Also, being that I'm white with dreads, I'm not sure if that would make a difference. I only mention that because the area I'm currently living in seems to view ethnic or African-American dreads as commonplace and acceptable while caucasian dreads are dirty and only for hippies. Thanks in advance!
updated by @jessmess: 01/13/15 08:52:48PM
Areas/ Countries Accepting of Locks?
Hi jessmess, I also had similar concerns seeing as i'm a dread virgin lol. Well to answer your question, yes there are parts of the world that frown on the idea of accepting dreadlocks in the professional world but the fact is they where ever it is you work, they are just gonna have to tolerate your looks..In certain parts of Africa, they frown upon it but don't really address the issue if the person is a foreigner. And seeing as they'll be gaining from your services, it'll be unwise to piss off the help..as for certain parts of Asia, I honestly don't know, but I do know for a fact that a lot of asian hair professionals don't like afircan hair, let alone dreads because it's too hard to work with...either way, I advice you to go to a place that respect or at least tolerates differences in personal culture..Plus I really don't see a problem if you dress appropriately...In case you encounter any opposition in asia (if you end up working there) let them know that you are well aware of the fact that they hold their culture is high regards and expect tourists to do so as well...so if they want you to uphold that tradition, they have to respect your culture in return...
Don't be afraid to be yourself..heck, you're way ahead of me in this dread journey and i'm barely starting..if you can last this long i'm sure you'll show that your character and your accomplishments are more important than your looks..even though they are an extension of who you are lol
