The documentary follows May’s journey to Uganda, home to one of the world’s largest banana-producing regions, where an overlooked agricultural byproduct became the foundation for a new approach to hair care. After banana trees produce fruit, their stems are traditionally discarded, leaving behind an abundant natural resource with little commercial use.

Through a partnership with Jakana Foods, those discarded stems are transformed into plant-based braiding fiber, creating a sustainable alternative to conventional synthetic hair. From harvesting and processing the banana fiber to coloring, packaging, and distribution, Rebundle has developed a production model that challenges long-standing practices within the beauty industry while embracing environmental responsibility.

Building awareness has proven just as challenging as developing the product itself. Although beauty supply stores remain central to the hair care market, Black-owned retailers represent only a small portion of the industry. Expanding access has required persistence, education, and a commitment to making healthier options more readily available to consumers.

Today, Rebundle continues to grow its retail presence across North America and the United Kingdom, offering a more accessible plant-based alternative for protective styling. By combining innovation, sustainability, and cultural understanding, the brand is helping reshape conversations around beauty—proving that meaningful change often begins with reimagining the everyday.

The documentary also traces May’s journey to Uganda, where she discovered an overlooked natural resource with the potential to transform the beauty industry. After banana trees produce fruit, their stems are traditionally discarded, creating an abundance of agricultural waste. Rather than seeing waste, May saw opportunity.

Working alongside Jakana Foods, Rebundle developed a process that transforms discarded banana stems into plant-based braiding fiber. From harvesting and processing the material to coloring, packaging, and global distribution, the company has created a sustainable alternative that challenges long-standing industry practices while supporting local communities.

Building a purpose-driven business, however, has required more than innovation. With only a small percentage of beauty supply stores in the United States being Black-owned, expanding distribution has become one of the company’s greatest challenges. Even so, Rebundle has steadily grown its retail presence across New York, Canada, and London, making healthier hair alternatives increasingly accessible to consumers.

The film also reveals the personal sacrifices behind the company’s success. May candidly discusses the financial realities of entrepreneurship, explaining that she often worked traditional jobs to support both herself and the continued development of Rebundle. Balancing business growth with personal well-being became one of the documentary’s most compelling themes.

Despite the obstacles, May remains committed to advancing Black women’s health through innovation and advocacy. Whether championing safer beauty products, supporting legislative initiatives, or bringing Reclaimed: Beyond the Braid to audiences at the ESSENCE Film Festival, her mission extends far beyond entrepreneurship. It is a story of resilience, purpose, and redefining what responsible beauty can look like for future generations.