Like a Local
In an effort to help those visiting Jacksonville & the residents who want to familiarize themselves more with it through the experiences of locals - the "Like a Local'' series is here! Each “local” is chosen because of their unique contribution to the city - from DJ’s and chefs, to CEO’s and barbers!
Malcolm Jackson
“Mayor” Malc is synonymous with the city and has had some of the most impactful works to showcase it through his eyes. As a documentary photographer, his clientele ranges from GQ to the New York Times. Every one of his exhibitions in the city are highly praised and bring out all walks of life. Truly someone to note when getting introduced to the city.
His current works can be seen at The Lark in Downtown Jacksonville - part of the “Black Circuit - Legend of the Black Cowboy” exhibit. Next public viewing is March 2 - 5-9pm.
Kelly Rich
Kelly moved here from Louisiana in 2018 and took on the Executive Director position of Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) and hit the ground running! Her plan wasn’t to always stay in Jax, but after the past 3.5 years here, she fell completely in love with the community and everything the city offers. Whether she’s leading bike tours through the city, or putting on one of the best annual events, Jax PorchFest, she’s absolutely one to know & watch!
Chef Kenny Gilbert
You just saw the video of him cooking for Oprah (not the first time that happened) & you may have seen him as a contestant on Top Chef in 2010 - but his success is not surprising as even from the beginning of his career, he became Chef de Cuisine at the Ritz by age 23! Countless awards & restaurants late, becoming a published author, (currently working on his 2nd book), & releasing his line of spices (link to buy), Chef Kenny opened up my favorite restaurant addition to the city in 2020, Silkies . Do yourself a favor and RUN if you haven’t been!
Nour Bash
As soon as I met Nour I knew I’d have to highlight her experience of Jacksonville! From her style influence and business acumen, to her travels around the world and impact on the beauty industry. Truly someone worth following, even if you’re just interested to see what outfit she has on that day!
ANGEL RAWS
Angel is the epitome of “work hard / play hard”. He’s a barber and the owner of 3 elite barber shops : @rawcutsbarbershop with clientele that ranged from Marcades Lewis to Mac Miller. He owns a grooming line “Reign” and is a competitive body builder (which ultimately landed him on NBC’s “Titan Games” hosted by Dwayne Johnson.
Catalina Alers selvagn
Having known Cata for years now, she truly is a treasure in the city - and definitely one of the most recognizable voices, as she's a national iHeartRadio personality based here but heard in major cities from Baltimore to Portland.
99% of the images I have of her are of her either eating or dancing - aka actually LIVING life. So when it comes to recommendations coming from her surrounding anything food / music / leisure related, I put 1000% of my trust behind!
Blythe brumleve
Blythe is the former Editor in Chief of Void Magazine and sports radio personality for 1010xl, and currently owns DigitalDispath.io where she helps logistics companies shorten sales cycles, marketing, +. She also co-founded Jax Podcasters Unite, a quarterly podcasters meetup, as well as hosting Cyberly, a B2B marketing show on Freightwaves TV.
Geexella
A musician (DJ, singer, rapper), activist, creator of DUVAL FOLX queer dance party, and overall badass and one of the biggest gifts to the city!
