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2020 Alumni - The OGs
Faith Shephard
My journey into hospitality started in the kitchen as a chef for a year and ended behind the bar. In my few years of working, being behind the bar felt the most right.
I learned beyond what I had pictured in my mind. I intend to further my knowledge and grow in this industry, as much as I can.
Bartending allows me to spread joy and maybe brighten up someone’s day or night from an exchange with me. I have a lot passion for what I do especially the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a part of my everyday life to make sure someone, somewhere knows I care in my community and is willing to speak for Lesbian women and Trans Women. Especially, with the death toll rising, unanswered questions, and closed cases. The voice they need is us. So be that voice. I will be that voice.
© Keli Reule Brown
Tim Stevens
My involvement in the service industry began as a way to make money as I supported myself through college. I soon realized that it was my calling, and began to dedicate my life to nurturing my craft, and attaining valuable skills throughout the industry. As I hunted for a bartending or barback job willing to train me, I found it difficult to break into the field. While out job hunting, someone introduced me to a bar training initiative that was soon to be off the ground. Since participating in Turning Tables, I’ve been learning and growing every day with a newfound love and passion. Through this program I have gotten to know an incredible community, that is filled with love and support and wants to see real change. The subsequent connection to mentors in the industry has been integral to my growth.
© Pableaux Johnson
Edward Allen
Edward started in the industry after graduating high school. In his approach to cocktails Edward strives to pay homage to New Orleans’ storied cocktail history, while ensuring his work embodies his authentic self. During months off in quarantine, Edward has been able to focus on Get In The Damn Pool (@getinthedamnpool ), a creative arts company he started that specializes in various mediums ranging from clothing design to photography.
© Keli Reule Brown
Andryan LaGarde
I am a New Orleans Native, and Turning Tables was perfect for me because I always wanted to bartend. I just did not know where to start. Turning Tables was my earliest experience with bartending. During the program I got the opportunity to work events and take on jobs at various bars throughout the process. My favorite thing about bartending is meeting lots of interesting people and making them happy! I love the confidence that comes from bartending as well as the ability to multi-task. I like having a sense of urgency and showing off my creativity. I believe bartending in New Orleans is special because we have events year round, and bartenders have the opportunity to make a living while having fun. I have worked at a Wine and Cocktail Bar called Claret as an apprentice. I am looking forward to starting a small business selling my Cocktails in my community using social media.
© Pableaux Johnson
Ronnie Richardson
Ronnie is a New Orleans native, with a drive and ability to overcome hardship to be commended. Despite the devastating impacts of Katrina, Ronnie was able to forge a career in the hospitality industry, starting with his involvement in Liberty’s Kitchen’s Youth development program. As he graduated from there, Ronnie decided that he would take on bartending. After participating in the bar training of Turning Tables, he was able to get a job and mentorship that left a lasting impact.
© Pableaux Johnson
Marquesha Jackson
Bio coming soon!
Photo Credit
© Pableaux Johnson
Rahkim Bell
Bio Coming Soon!
Photo Credit
© Pableaux Johnson
Bryan Diaz has been documenting Turning Tables through the stories and voices of alumni. since our pilot year in the Fall of 2020. Follow us through our journey.
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