Leading From the Heart Award Nominations 2025
Nominations are now open for the third annual Leading From the Heart Awards, which awards two $2,500.00 grants to women in the Greater New Orleans area who have had a positive influence in the vital fields of hospitality, sustainability or food justice.
These awards are organized by Les Dames d'Escoffier International (LDEI) New Orleans, a philanthropic organization of women leaders in the fields of food, fine beverage, and hospitality.
Since its founding in 2017, the LDEI New Orleans chapter has been providing leadership, support, and shared knowledge through educational opportunities, mentorship programs, and philanthropic events in the Greater New Orleans area. LDEI New Orleans contributes to the community's growth and enrichment through impactful initiatives, such as the Leading from the Heart Awards. Across 43 chapters internationally, more than 2,400 members are involved with the organization, promoting positive change within hospitality, sustainability, and food justice internationally.
In alignment with LDEI's philanthropic mission, these awards spotlight women at the forefront of positive change while providing resources that allow them to grow or strengthen their impact. LDEI New Orleans chapter president Dee Lavigne said in a press release, "These awards shine a light on the incredible women in our community who are driving change in our industry. Their passion and dedication inspire us all to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact."
Since the first Leading from the Heart Awards in February 2023, recipients of the award have included Chef Cristina Quackenbush of Tatlo and Good Trouble Network, Restaurateur Amanda Toups of Toups Meatery, founder of Codey's Nola commissary and incubator Sinnidra Taylor, founder of Nola Nite Market Thuy Pham, and founder and president of WeHelp Nola Olivia McCoy.
Submit your nomination HERE by January 18 at 5 p.m.The recipients of the awards will be honored at an awards ceremony in March 2025. All other details, including ticketing and sponsorship information, are forthcoming and will be shared soon.
For sponsorship information please contact Dee Lavigne: president@lesdamesnola.org.
