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, love, 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 Atkinson is a servant first — on a mission to feed both hearts and stomachs. A chef at her core, Jayda began her journey as a Touring Chef and now serves as a Tour Manager, bringing her signature blend of care, creativity, and coordination to the road. Whether curating meals backstage or managing logistics for global tours, her work is grounded in service and storytelling through food.

Jayda’s love for cooking is more than a profession — it’s a calling. She finds deep joy in feeding communities at festivals, brand activations, and pop-up events, where she shares the soulful flavors of New Orleans with the world. Her culinary roots run deep, and her dishes speak of heritage, healing, and home.

In addition to her culinary work, Jayda is passionate about mentorship and literacy. She devotes her time to supporting high school students and reading her debut children’s book, Red Beans and Rice for Dinner, to elementary classrooms — a reflection of her love for food, family, and cultural storytelling.

As a brand ambassador and culinary consultant, she partners with food and beverage companies to create authentic, engaging content and develop recipes that honor tradition while embracing innovation.

Jayda remains active in her community, second-lining with The Lady & Men Rollers Social & Pleasure Club, founded by the legendary Yakamein Lady, Linda Green, and dancing in Glamorous Pink with the NOLA Lolas — a Mardi Gras dance krewe she co-founded with her Partner in Pink Kourtenay Roberts.

Through the realms of food, entertainment, and service, Jayda Atkinson continues to create joyful, impactful experiences. Her life’s work is a reflection of her heart — rooted in purpose, powered by culture, and driven by love.