Welcome to Voices of I Am New Orleans, an inspiring new audio series created in partnership with Be Loud Studios. This series amplifies the voices of young leaders and the organizations working alongside them to build a stronger, more equitable New Orleans.
Real Stories, Real Change
In each episode, you’ll hear from local youth and the community change makers working alongside them to tackle big issues like food insecurity, workforce development and more. Through real, unfiltered conversations, Voices of I Am New Orleans shines a light on the challenges young people face and the bold solutions they’re driving to shape a better future for our city.
Episode Six: “Getting My Hands Dirty”
With Louisiana Green Corps / June 17, 2025
In this episode, meet Mikayla and Dwayne, two LA Green Corps students building careers that protect the environment and strengthen community health. With support from Executive Director Ryan Mattingly, they’re gaining hands-on experience, finding purpose and learning how green jobs can create lasting change in neighborhoods too often left behind.
Episode Five: “The Farm Changes You”
With Grow Dat / June 3, 2025
In Episode 5, “The Farm Changes You,” we hear from Grow Dat Youth Farm, a community farming project that works with youths and young adults to distribute over 50,000 pounds of fresh produce annually in New Orleans. Youth assistant crew members Izara and Carson share how the farm has shaped their leadership, deepened their connection to the environment and sparked their passion for access to healthy food for all.
Episode Four: “That’s My Why”
With Lede New Orleans / May 20, 2025
In this episode, meet Freddie and Kennedy, alumni of Lede New Orleans’ Community Reporting Fellowship, using storytelling to shape a more just and joyful future. Alongside Lede Co-Founder Jennifer Larino, they share how the program empowers young Black and Brown voices to tell authentic stories, spark civic dialogue and shift the narrative of New Orleans from the inside out.
Episode Three: “Breaking Generational Curses”
With Dillard University’s Center for Racial Justice / May 6, 2025
In this episode, meet Lucine and Raven, two Dillard University students driving change through the school’s Center for Racial Justice. With support from Program Manager Tia Suggs, they’re leading real conversations and projects to fight injustice in their communities and working to break generational curses through education, advocacy and action.
Episode Two: “We Are the Next Generation of Programmers”
With Operation Spark / April 22, 2025
In this episode, meet Helen and Alasia. They’re learning to code and gaining real-world experience through Operation Spark’s accelerated training program. With mentor Akin’s support, they’re building confidence and charting bold new paths toward futures in tech.
Episode One: “Your Lived Experience is Enough”
In our debut episode, we meet Xavier juniors Sean and Meah, who are leading the charge for food justice through XULA FATE. From policy advocacy to hands-on solutions, hear how they’re working to make Xavier a hunger-free campus.
Meet Our Partners
This series wouldn’t be possible without our incredible partners at Be Loud Studios. Be Loud empowers young people through radio storytelling, giving them the space to share their voices, connect and build confidence. Since 2019, Be Loud has worked with over 3,000 teens, turning their stories into powerful narratives for change.
Learn more at beloudstudios.org