An afternoon bringing together featured voices, cultural leaders, and community supporters to honor storytelling, heritage, and shared cultural legacy. The gathering reflected the spirit of Kreol Magazine: rooted in history, shaped by people, and carried forward through community.
In December 2025, Kreol Magazine marked the launch of its latest editions, Issues 41 and 42, with a vibrant gathering celebrating the voices and stories at the heart of the publication. Hosted at the Leon R. Tarver II Cultural and Heritage Center of Southern University, in partnership with Nexus Cultural Foundation, the event brought together contributors, featured personalities, supporters, and friends for an afternoon that was both lively and meaningful.
Issue 41, featuring Dr Ernest W. Kinchen Jr. on the cover, was very much present in spirit as well as in print. Invited to speak, Dr Kinchen delivered what became the most talked-about moment of the afternoon, a passionate address that stretched well beyond expectations. Reading his full essay, the speech tested patience before ultimately winning over the room. By the end, its central message, often summed up as “the time to overcome is now,” earned him a standing ovation, proving that even a marathon can have a powerful finish.
Issue 42 took center stage through the presence of its cover feature, Rhaul Guillaume, alongside fellow contributors Karl Turner, Judge Charles Cravins, and Don Vappie. Each was invited to share a few words, offering reflections on their work and on the importance of having their stories told through Kreol Magazine.
One of the lighter moments of the afternoon came during the introduction of Judge Cravins. Rather than a formal presentation, his brother Don Cravins Sr. took to the microphone, delivering a warm and humorous introduction filled with affectionate jokes and gentle pokes that immediately set the tone and drew laughter from the audience.
Following Dr Kinchen’s extended remarks, General Russell L. Honoré brought the room back to good humor with his trademark candor. Joking about needing to leave to feed the horses and catch the football game, he quipped, “Man, I thought lawyers could talk!” a comment that captured both the mood of the room and the camaraderie of the event.
The afternoon was made even more enjoyable thanks to Bryan Fuselier, who provided the catering. Although his book was not officially launched on the day, it was on display, and guests were able to engage with his work while enjoying food that, as always, was excellent.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Georgina Dhillon, Editor and Publisher of Kreol Magazine, drawing the launch to a warm and fitting close. More than a formal unveiling of two new issues, the gathering reflected what Kreol Magazine does best: bringing people together through stories, culture, and shared experience.
