Touré Folkes
Executive Director
Born in New York City and shaped by many places along the east coast and the South, Touré now calls New Orleans his home.
Prior to entering the hospitality industry, Touré developed an Economic Development program, working with the Dominican government and local businesses, providing resources and training to create a sustainable eco-tourism model. When he returned to New York, he began working in bars and restaurants while volunteering and working with local educators for a program in the South Bronx called the Power Writers . This program creates a safe space and platform for at-risk and vulnerable youth in the South Bronx by embedding trained mentors in the school system. In this role, Touré saw firsthand the importance of guidance from an experienced advisor.
Having sparked his bartending career in New York, Touré moved down south and continued his growth in the New Orleans bar community while also continuing to work with local nonprofit organizations. In New Orleans he has found both community and purpose to create more change within the spirits and hospitality industry.
Touré gives credit to the mentors and elders that have raised him through these many journeys in life. Between Washington Heights and Harlem, he was brought into the homes of many in the community by his mother. Touré learned that community support is a precious resource. It’s this ethos that drives the program and curriculum at Turning Tables.
Touré was selected as a 2022’ Imbibe 75 ‘Person To Watch,’ an annual list of the people, places, and organizations that will shape the drinks world.
toure@turningtablesnola.org