Laura Jean-Jacques is a multifaceted leader whose passion for empowering others shines through her diverse endeavors in advocacy, coaching, and entrepreneurship. As the founder and CEO of Zanset Tea Co., Laura's journey into organic tea production is not just about creating beverages but also about promoting the idea of "food is medicine." This core belief stems from her deep-seated commitment to improving mental healthcare accessibility across communities.
Her role as a Community Development Strategist at Jean-Jacques Group further exemplifies her dedication to holistic growth. Drawing from her own experiences in small business development and holistic health practices, Laura brings a unique perspective to the table. Her insights into entrepreneurship, community building, and empowerment resonate strongly, especially in underrepresented communities where her work is making a tangible difference.
Beyond her professional roles, Laura's commitment to community revitalization is evident in her efforts to organize and revitalize Merchant Associations throughout Brooklyn. These grassroots initiatives showcase her hands-on approach to creating positive change at the local level, where meaningful connections and collaborations thrive.
Laura's artistic endeavors are equally impactful. As an Interdisciplinary Artist specializing in Analog Collage, Photography, and Creative Storytelling, she weaves narratives that celebrate her Haitian heritage, deep connection to nature, and daily experiences in New York City. Through her art, Laura amplifies the voices of black individuals, highlighting their journey of reconnecting with nature as a healing mechanism and honoring their ancestral roots.
In 2019, Laura curated the Belonging Art Experience, a groundbreaking exhibition that brought together 13 artists and survivors of sexual violence. This transformative event not only provided a platform for healing and expression but also sparked important conversations about trauma, resilience, and collective healing. The impact of the Belonging Art Experience reverberated far beyond the art world, touching the lives of over 5000 individuals and shedding light on the urgent need to address and eradicate sexual violence in society.
Currently, Laura is immersed in her latest project, IN:PRACTICE, which builds upon the themes explored in the Belonging Art Experience. This ongoing exploration of black and Caribbean identity, deep connection, and belonging reflects Laura's unwavering commitment to using art as a tool for social change and cultural celebration.
To connect with Laura and experience her work firsthand, you can also follow her on Instagram @littlelaurastudio and @Laurajeanjacques, where she shares insights, inspirations, and updates on her latest projects. Laura's dedication to empowering individuals, fostering community resilience, and advocating for meaningful change makes her a beacon of hope and inspiration in today's complex world.
Welcome to the Conversation
Community Development Strategist
'22 CORO Neighborhood Leadership Fellow
'22 Communitas Ventures Accelerator Cohort 8
'21 Represented Foundation V.E.R. Incubator Fellow
Committed to being a Creative, Passionate, and Authentic Leader.
