HEY Y’ALL!


“Joyful pint-sized ‘tour de force’ best describes Jayda Atkinson. Hailing from New Orleans, she embodies a life rich with abundance, hospitality, purpose, joy, and the relentless pursuit of happiness. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a visionary in the food, entertainment, and community service sectors is a testament to her resilience and commitment to creating HeartFul experiences.” – Kiara Akita

Jayda has made her mark across various platforms, including television, books, and kitchens, all while nourishing both the hearts and stomachs of those she serves, particularly in impoverished communities. Since 2007, she has been committed to providing food and essential resources globally through her organization, Heartful Giving. This initiative includes youth mentorship programs aimed at inspiring and empowering the next generation to lead with kindness, resilience, and a sense of community.

Jayda is also the author of three books, including the heartwarming children’s book Red Beans and Rice for Dinner, which celebrates love, family traditions, and the joy of sharing meals and kindness; ABCs: Feeding the Body and Spirit, a guide to holistic nourishment; and the inspirational The Storm Chaser, a testament to overcoming life’s challenges.

Jayda has been featured on national platforms such as Dr. Oz, Essence Magazine, and the Food Network’s Chopped, among others. A passionate advocate for addressing food insecurity and promoting wellness, she continues to expand her reach and impact.

Serving as a Tour Manager and Backstage Champion, and the founder of Heartful Touring, Jayda brings her unique blend of passion and expertise to tour management, ensuring every tour (or one-off) is a journey toward professionalism, compassionate service, purposeful leadership, and love. Heartful Touring crafts experiences that go beyond the ordinary, infusing every tour with a sense of unity, joy, and heartfelt connection. Her southern hospitality, passion, and heart of service, stemming from her start in the music industry as a Chef and Backstage Caterer, continue to shine brightly in Tour Management and in everything she does.

Committed to making a positive impact in the world, Jayda’s lifelong mission is to feed not only the hungry stomachs of individuals but also their hungry hearts, emphasizing the importance of community, wellness, and JOYFULL living.

In Jayda Atkinson’s world, every encounter is an opportunity to give, encourage balance, transformation, and growth, sprinkled with the unique flavor of New Orleans’ lagniappe. Her legacy of love continues to inspire and elevate those around her.