Paying It Forward & Back

Growing up in New Orleans gave me my creative foundation, but building a career at the intersection of media, design, and technology has shown me exactly how fast the game changes. I’ve spent my professional life pushing those boundaries—from building AI tools to championing homegrown creators at places like YouTube. Through it all, one thing remains crystal clear: our city is overflowing with natural storytellers, but raw talent alone doesn't cut it when the industry is evolving at lightning speed. Our folks need to stay current and stay competitive so they aren't left behind.

That’s why I pour so much into mentoring and personally funding film and music projects back home, and it’s exactly why I serve on the board of NOVAC. We are out here making sure the next generation of local filmmakers and digital creators have the cutting-edge tools, workforce training, and access they need to own their narratives and build sustainable careers right in the 504. Supporting NOVAC is simply about paying it forward and future-proofing our local talent. As we gear up for GiveNOLA Day on Tuesday, May 5th—with early giving kicking off tomorrow, April 28th!—I'm asking my circle to invest in the magic in our own backyard. Help us keep the pipeline strong by making a gift.