Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000

Quarter-Finalist

April Jackson

From nonprofits to tables, I serve fresh, flavorful meals with heart—Southern roots, global flair, and love in every dish.

Currently 9

in the Quarter-Finals

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You decide who will appear in Taste of Home magazine, and win $25,000!

Voting for Semi-Finalists ends Thursday the 23rd of July at 7PM PDT

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What is your signature dish?

My signature dish is my seafood étouffée — a rich, slow-built Louisiana-style dish layered with deep roux, garlic, herbs, shrimp, sausage, and soul. It’s comfort food that brings people together. Every pan tells a story of family, culture, resilience, and love

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My culinary inspiration comes from my mother’s soulful home cooking, the bold Louisiana flavors of chefs like Emeril Lagasse, and the creativity and presentation style of Martha Stewart. I learned that food can nourish people emotionally, spiritually, and physically while still being beautiful and intentional

What would you do with the $25,000?

This opportunity would help me turn survival into legacy. I would use the $25,000 to build a community-centered food business that provides high-quality meals to transitional homes, seniors, and underserved families. It would help me secure equipment, licensing, transportation, and a commercial kitchen so I can create jobs, serve others, and build something lasting through food and service.

James Beard Foundation

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