Special to
L’Observateur

Akeem Burl, lifelong resident of St. John the Baptist Parish, is reigning as the 2014-2015 Captain of the Krewe of Agape.

Serving as the youngest Captain and Krewe member, Burl recently hosted a kick-off event for the Royal Court of Agape with a “Coming to America” themed African gala. As Captain, Burl will ensure crewmembers uphold the proper image and etiquette that represents the Krewe of Agape. He is also responsible for coordinating the ball and all pre-ball events.

“I was told by the 2014 Agape Queen, ‘It’s your ball,’ and I want to do my best to ensure that my ball upholds the prestigious legacy that the Krewe of Agape is founded upon,” Burl said. “Agape means love, and I want to make sure that is expressed in all that we do this carnival season.”

Burl is the son of Albert Burl Jr. and Irene Snyder Burl. He is a senior at Southeastern Louisiana University, where he is majoring in English and is a member of Sigma Alpha Lambda National Honors & Leadership Society and Sigma Tau Delta English Club.

Burl was named to the President’s List with a GPA of 4.0 for the Fall 2012 semester. He is employed with the New Orleans Aviation Board and is enrolled in the Kauffman FASTTRAC new business venture program in anticipation of opening his new business, A Touch of Akeem, in the River Parishes.

He volunteers with the St. John the Baptist Parish Parks and Recreation Department and has worked as a lifeguard and swim coach during the summer months.

The Krewe of Agape was formed in 1980 to promote and uplift black residents through organized, sponsored community activities.

The organization was incorporated in 1994 and has awarded over $25,000 in academic scholarships to students in the River Parishes.

The motto for the Krewe is “Christian, Love, and Charity.”