At the Heart of Carnivale du Vin
Carnivale du Vin is always a celebration—but the most powerful moments are centered on the young people we serve.
Friday | The Beneficiary Luncheon: A Taste of Impact
The weekend began with our Beneficiary Luncheon, where students from NOCCA, NOCHI, ProStart, Café Hope, and Café Reconcile showcased their skills by serving appetizers, entrées, and desserts to our guests—bringing the mission to the table in a meaningful, hands-on way.
Guests also experienced interactive activations from our two New Orleans Emeril’s Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen partners. Dr. John Ochsner Discovery Health Sciences Academy (DJOD) shared handmade bath soaks featuring herbs grown in their garden, while Belle Chasse Academy (BCA) refreshed attendees with a seasonal mocktail—highlighting creativity, sustainability, and student learning beyond the kitchen.
Saturday | Youth Take the Spotlight
Saturday evening opened with energy and purpose as young people from the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) took the stage. Their drumline and dance team set the tone for the night, reminding everyone why this work matters.
Saturday | Inside the Experience
Throughout the evening, students collaborated alongside chefs to help bring the event to life—gaining real-world exposure, building confidence, and learning what’s possible through mentorship and opportunity.
Saturday | Voices That Matter
Co-emceed by YEP CEO Melissa Sawyer, the program featured moving remarks from Makhi, a former member of the YEP drumline who shared how mentorship through YEP helped him build confidence and envision new possibilities for his future.
Sunday | ASIF Scholars at NOCHI
Sunday’s brunch at the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI) highlighted the next generation of culinary leaders. Current Aarón Sánchez scholars prepared food and engaged with guests, sharing their journeys and demonstrating the skills and confidence they continue to build through the program.
Why It Matters
From Friday’s Beneficiary Luncheon through Sunday’s closing brunch, Carnivale du Vin is more than a single event—it fuels programs and partnerships that support young people year-round. Each moment reflects what’s possible when community, opportunity, and purpose come together.
