Celebrate Black History: Brandi Lynn Reynaud

Published 12:04 am Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Full Name:  Brandi Lynn Reynaud

Where are you from?  Reserve, Louisiana

 Tell us a little bit about yourself: 

 I’m the daughter of the late Christine Gray (Reserve) and Loumonth Jack (Edgard). My husband Lyncoy Reynaud and I have three amazing children: Brayden, Bryce and Layla. While attending Our Lady of Grace school I developed a love for poetry. As time went on, my love for poetry intertwined with storytelling. Most of my books are for children’s entertainment but also for their understanding of difficult life situations. Whenever writing, I have an overwhelming feeling of clarity and peace. It has become needed for my daily balance. After the publishing of “Granny the Unstoppable”, is when I realized that writing is a part of who I am; writing is my life’s calling. 

Who are some black role models you look up to, and why?  

I’m inspired by black people all over the world, past and present. But my close hearted and true inspiration comes from the up-and-coming black role models within our community. There is Tyler Lewis (Edgard). Lewis has become the first black head coach in Terrebonne Parish, and that’s groundbreaking. January Scott (Reserve) – January is an amazing author. Scott has written three colorful, comedic African American filled children’s books. We also have Jada Marshall (St. Charles). Jada is 20 yr. old entrepreneur. She’s the owner of Brandy Louise Candles. Marshall’s products are plant based and hand crafted. Even her candle jars are eco-friendly.  These are just a few of the people that are molding the community, with dedication, creativity and drive for success.  By supporting and acknowledging the black role models within Louisiana, we build our Louisiana.

What does Black History Month mean to you? 

My definition of Black History is, acknowledging and appreciating our past by creating our future. I think knowing and understanding our past is necessary, but I also feel we should consider ourselves Black History as well. Sometimes I’ll say the phrase “I am Black History.” By saying this phrase, it brings more consciousness to my life choices.  It helps me to envision myself impacting the world the way Martin Luther King Jr. did or even having the amount of creativity as Madam C. J. Walker. I believe we all should appreciate and learn about our Black History, but we must also strive to become Black History.

Why is it important to encourage diversity? 

 Diversity encourages imagination, if we are continuously around the same race, same religion, and only socialized with like-minded people. Our world would lack creativity. We develop ideas from experiences or the want to experience. Without diversity different genres of music would not exist. Without diversity we would not be able to indulge in different cultured food. Without diversity our beautiful rainbow of skin colors would not exist. The encouragement of diversity is necessary for the development of our world. When we are introduced to new things, we learn to love all things.  

What changes would you like to see in the local community?  

I would love to see more activities for our youth. If we give our children more choices with their time, they are less likely to choose crime. For instance, an activity gym for children. This would encourage fitness at a young age bringing forth healthy adults. Music lessons outside of school, when children take music lessons it makes them academically stronger and boost self-esteem. I also believe St. John would benefit from a boys and girls club. A Lot of parents work long hours and some are single parents. This type of program helps prepare children for life. The extra support and positive influence would impact many of our youth.