2027 Debutante Coterie

Christia Honor Hardon Daughter of Mr. Charles Hardon and Ms. Caneka Webb Hardon of Atlanta, Georgia. Her mother is formerly of New Orleans. Attends Riverwood International Charter School in Sandy Springs, Georgia. Christia Honor Hardon is dually enrolled in Toccoa Falls College in Georgia as she continues her studies at her high school in Sandy Springs, Georgia. At Riverwood International Charter School, Christia is a member of the Student Government Association, the President of the Black Student Union and on the honor roll. She has also participated in the Sandy Springs Young Leadership Academy and was an officer in Students Against

Destructive Decisions. After seeking a business and marketing degree, she hopes to explore "the world through the lens of photography and creatively directing." She recently completed the Rites of Passage program with Zion Hill Church in Atlanta. In previous Carnival seasons, she was a page in the Original Illinois Club and her mother and sister reigned over the balls in 1993 and 2024, respectively. Christia loves everything creative....video editing, photography and fashion.

Jaide Kaila Williams is a rising senior at St. Mary’s Academy in New Orleans, where she has distinguished herself through academic excellence, leadership, and creativity. An accomplished honor student and active member of several national honor societies, Jaide also serves as President of the school’s Anime/Animation Club. Her achievements include competing nationally at the Mu Alpha Theta Convention and performing alongside Grammy Award-winning artist Ledisi during the 2025 Super Bowl pregame show. 

With a passion for animation, art, and fashion design, Jaide plans to pursue animation in college and hopes to study abroad while developing her talents on an international level. Her ultimate goal is to work with major animation studios and one day launch her own creative brand, inspiring others through culturally influenced art and storytelling. 

Kennedi Livingston is a senior at John Ehret High School who has distinguished herself through academic excellence, leadership, and school spirit. As a Fast Forward dual-enrollment student, she is simultaneously completing her high school diploma and earning an Associate’s degree with a concentration in Biological Sciences. She previously maintained a 4.2 GPA as an honors student and plans to attend LSU, where she hopes to major in Psychology with a minor in Public Health on her path toward becoming a psychologist. Kennedi Livingston-BIOGRAPHY.pdf

A dedicated cheerleader, Kennedi now proudly serves as Cheer Captain after joining the team during her sophomore year and stepping into leadership as a junior. She was also crowned Ms. Junior in 2025. Beyond academics and cheer, Kennedi enjoys fashion, beauty, art, poetry, and spending time with family and friends. She enters her debutante season excited for the opportunities and bright future ahead.

Kensleigh A. Redmond, goddaughter of Ms. Kay Redmond and daughter of Kendra and Preston Dark, is an accomplished honor roll senior at Gulfport High School. Dedicated to both her academic success and personal growth, Kensleigh has remained actively involved in organizations that reflect her interests in leadership, service, health, and education.

She is a proud member of Key Club, HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), and Educators Rising. Through her involvement in these organizations, Kensleigh continues to develop her leadership skills while exploring opportunities to serve others and prepare for her future.

In addition to her academic and extracurricular achievements, Kensleigh is a very active member of First Missionary Baptist Church in Pass Christian. Her faith and commitment to her church community are important parts of her life, and she especially enjoys teaching Children’s Church and working with young people.

Outside of school and church, Kensleigh enjoys dancing and writing, which allow her to express her creativity and personality. With her strong academic foundation, heart for service, and passion for helping others, Kensleigh looks forward to continuing her education, pursuing her goals, and making a positive impact in her community.

Kylie Buford is a determined young woman who is always willing to learn new things and take on new challenges. She is the daughter of Kim and Melvin Buford and attends Louise S. McGehee School, where she is encouraged to learn, grow, and become a strong, confident woman.

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Kylie has a passion for science and hopes to study the female body and earn a doctorate degree in the future. She is dedicated to her education and plans to use her knowledge to make a positive impact in the lives of women.

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Outside of the classroom, Kylie is an accomplished student-athlete. She was awarded a letterman’s sweater for her outstanding performance in three sports: volleyball, basketball, and track. Kylie is also a leader in her school’s Diversity Club, where she helps spread awareness and information about minority groups. In addition, she is a member of her school newspaper, the McBee Club.

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When Kylie has free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends, practicing yoga, creating art, and participating in sports. She is grateful for the opportunity to be part of this debutante program and to meet and build friendships with so many amazing young women. Kylie looks forward to continuing to grow, learn, and pursue her dreams.

Lily Rene Mendoza Baptiste is a senior at Louise S. McGehee School, where she maintains a 3.9 GPA, has served as Class President for three years, and has been recognized with the school’s highest honor, the Citizenship Girl Award. She previously served as Youth Board President of Upturn Arts and remains active in student leadership, theater, choir, athletic's management, and the Diversity Club. Lily has received honors for her achievement in Spanish, including the Sociedad Española José Luis Baños Award for Excellence in Spanish and first place in Spanish II at the Louisiana State Literary Rally. Her creative writing has been published multiple times in McGehee’s Mélange literary magazine. She also volunteers as a Spanish-language interpreter for unaccompanied immigrant youth receiving legal services. Lily plans to study psychology in college, with an interest in using her education to support children and families.  

Michah Jeanelle Beasley is the daughter of Dr. Candice Beasley. She is a senior at Northwest Rankin High School in Brandon, Mississippi. She is the president of Health Occupation Students of America. Additionally, she is also involved in Interact, Key Club, and is a Diamond Girl. She finds joy in ceramics and painting. She plans on attending college to major in Psychology, and she is very excited for this experience.

Yajahira Mcmillian is the youngest daughter of Ingriz Maldonado-Artica and Shawn Maheia Jr. and a proud member of the Bonnabel High School Class of 2027. She is an active cheerleader, track member, S.H.E. member, & Serves as a Hospitality Student Leader for the Deca club. Outside of school, Yajahira enjoys tumbling, babysitting, and dog sitting.

As she enters her senior year, Yajahira is focused on maintaining strong grades, embracing new opportunities, and continuing to grow through her school, sports, and community experiences. During the 2026–2027 Mardi Gras season, she will have the honor of being presented by the Original Illinois Club.

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After high school, Yajahira plans to pursue her education and build a career in real estate and entrepreneurship. Her ultimate goal is to create a successful and independent future, give back to her family, and remain true to herself while living life to the fullest.