Jornea Armant Erwin

There are moments in life that remind you why you kept saying yes.

Honored and excited to take the MainStage this morning alongside Ronnie | Hands-On STEM Expert for Kids and Sheldon L. Eakins, Ph.D. to share my lived experience and the journey that led me here.

A heartfelt thank you to Leticia Citizen , Jody, Valerie Lewis , Toutoule Ntoya , Sarah Sarah , and Brian Romero Smith for your guidance, encouragement, and support leading up to this moment. I’m grateful to stand on this stage because so many people believed in me along the way.

Let’s do this.

Today was my first time experiencing , a beautiful Black-owned neighborhood bakery and café in Central City, New Orleans, and whew… what a beautiful experience. From the moment you walk in, it feels warm, intentional, and deeply rooted in culture, community, and love. You can feel the honoring of the ancestors in such a beautiful and meaningful way throughout the space and experience.

What makes it even more special is seeing Kaitlin Guerin, someone I grew up with in church, and our mommies worked together, pouring her passion, creativity, and incredible talent back into New Orleans through her artistry as a pastry chef. There’s something powerful about watching people from your community grow into their purpose and create spaces that uplift others.

I’m so proud of all she’s accomplished. Y’all definitely need to check it out and support. Trust me… you’re going to love it. ❤️