From the vibrant streets of New Orleans to the harsh realities of homelessness, Derrick Jenauré is rewriting his narrative and inviting others to do the same. A seasoned chef, Katrina survivor, and rising fashion creative, Derrick is proving that resilience and purpose can fuel transformation, even in the darkest of times.
Cooking Through the Chaos
Derrick’s story began in the kitchens of New Orleans, where he started cooking professionally at the age of 17. Over the next 26 years, he mastered the culinary arts, working across the city’s fine dining scene. But a debilitating foot injury and a resulting addiction to pain medications derailed his life. “The food industry is intense,” he reflects. “It costs us our social lives, relationships, and even our health. Sobriety in this line of work is rare.”
But Derrick made the choice to fight. Now 18 months sober, he is on a mission not just to recover, but to rise with food, fashion, and faith as his fuel.
Fashion Born from Survival
Out of struggle came vision. During his recovery, Derrick launched Vibez Merch, a fashion and crafts brand that merges art with healing. Operated from his storage unit-turned-design studio, the brand reflects both his creativity and resilience. “It’s more than fashion. It’s survival, therapy, and my future,” he says.
His online store showcases vibrant designs and handmade hats, with plans to introduce his creations to Saints football fans and French Quarter foot traffic this season. It’s his way of turning pain into beauty and of building the capital to one day open his dream restaurant.
Still Homeless, Never Hopeless
Living in a Men’s Work Program, Derrick uses every available resource to stay focused, attending AA/NA meetings, therapy, and support groups. “Without mental health support, I wouldn’t be here,” he shares. “I’m still homeless, but I’m never hopeless.”
His message to others? “There’s a huge difference between a hand-out and a hand-up.” His story stands as a call to action for communities, investors, and supporters who believe in backing true grit and talent.
A Movement of Resilience and Reinvention
Through his culinary journey, fashion designs, and faith-driven recovery, Derrick is not just surviving, he’s creating. His brand offers:
- Wearable art and handmade fashion items with a message of healing and empowerment
- A deeply personal story of transformation through sobriety, creativity, and faith
- A platform for investors and collaborators looking to support grassroots resilience and entrepreneurship
His motto says it all: “Whatever it takes, just see it through.”
Explore his work and support his journey at www.vibezmerch.bigcartel.com.
