NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The 2024 Queen Zulu-Select, A. Angelique Roche, has arrived!
In typical Zulu fashion, she arrived in style at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, welcomed by members of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club.
Roche is a second-generation Queen Zulu. Her mother, Rose Lee A. Roche, reigned as Queen Zulu in 1996.
King Zulu-Elect Melvin Labat said he knew after meeting Roche that she would be the perfect person for the role.
“One of the things I admired most about her is that she smiles more than I did, and I’m elated. It’s been a great ride a great journey. Thank you and thank your family,” said Labat.
“It’s an absolute privilege and I will tell you from day one I have been smiling just as he said,” said Roche.
The feeling of running behind the floats during Zulu is all too familiar to Roche. She was just three months old when she attended her first Zulu parade.
A full circle moment, Roche said she feels like she’s in a fairy tale.
“For me, it is about the privilege of bringing joy. Of upholding a legacy, of upholding our culture. Celebrating who we are as people as well as engaging our community,” said Roche.
Only a few weeks away from the Zulu parade, she said she owes this all to the city she grew up with and holds dearly to her heart.
“I also want to thank the city of New Orleans, because Mardi Gras is one of the things that brings everything, holds our culture and our community. It continues to show who we are not just as a city but as people,” said Roche.
The Zulu parade rolls on Mardi Gras day at 8 a.m.
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