Read the full stored bill text
2026 Regular Session ENROLLED
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 56
BY SENATOR JENKINS
A RESOLUTION
To commend Niematulai DiGrazia, a nationally-renowned chef, for her culinary
contributions to the state of Louisiana.
WHEREAS, Niematulai DiGrazia, a native of Sierra Leone, West Africa, and now
a resident of Louisiana, began her culinary journey inspired by her mother's resourceful
approach to preparing fresh meals with limited resources, instilling in her a deep
understanding of food as a symbol of love, resilience, and community; and
WHEREAS, this early foundation has profoundly shaped Chef DiGrazia, allowing
her to infuse her work with cultural authenticity and purpose while sharing the rich traditions
of West Africa alongside the many flavors of Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, her entrepreneurial vision along with her culinary expertise led to the
creation of RNL's Cookery Corner, an Afro-Fusion food truck, which later evolved into a
permanent brick-and-mortar establishment, Niema's Cookery Corner, reflecting both her
innovation and the strong community support for her culinary contributions; and
WHEREAS, Chef DiGrazia has been recognized for her excellence and influence,
including being named in "Chefs to Watch 2022" by Southern Living magazine and being
honored as one of north Louisiana's Best Chefs in 2019 by the Prize Foundation, affirming
her status as a leading figure in the culinary landscape of Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, Chef DiGrazia has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to
elevating the culinary identity of Shreveport-Bossier and northwest Louisiana on national
platforms; and
WHEREAS, through her appearances and achievements on nationally recognized
culinary programs, including "Beat Bobby Flay", "Fight Like a Lion", "Chef's Grudge
Match", "So Sous Me", and "Chopped", Chef DiGrazia has consistently showcased the rich
traditions, innovation, and cultural depth of Louisiana cuisine; and
Page 1 of 2
SR NO. 56 ENROLLED
WHEREAS, Chef DiGrazia has further distinguished herself through her service as
a culinary ambassador, having prepared and presented cuisine for members of the Louisiana
Senate and other civic leaders, thereby strengthening connections between culture,
governance, and community pride; and
WHEREAS, her journey to becoming a thriving culinary entrepreneur in Louisiana
stands as a testament to Chef DiGrazia's perseverance, innovation, and the powerful role of
cultural heritage in shaping communities in Louisiana.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana
does hereby commend and express deep appreciation for Chef Niematulai DiGrazia's
ongoing work as a culinary ambassador contributing to Louisiana's ongoing legacy as a
culinary destination, as well as her culinary contributions to the state of Louisiana.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to Chef
Niematulai DiGrazia.
PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE
Page 2 of 2