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Twenty years ago, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, forever changing the lives of thousands of New Orleanians.

Among them was visionary creative director and entrepreneur Hiram H. Smith, who lost not only his home but also the life he had built in the city he loved.

Yet from devastation came determination, and from tragedy, a legacy of resilience and creativity that continues to inspire.

In 2005, Katrina’s floodwaters destroyed Smith’s home and uprooted his family. With no choice but to relocate, he settled in Houston, Texas, carrying with him the culture, artistry, and spirit of New Orleans.

Reflecting on those early days, Smith recalls, “Leaving New Orleans felt like leaving a piece of my soul behind, but I knew I had to carry its spirit with me wherever I went.”

Soon after, he launched HiramStyle, Inc., an event production and design company known for its elegance, precision, and signature flair.

What began as a leap of faith has grown into a nationally recognized brand with a client list that includes Oprah Winfrey’s OWN Network, BET, VH1, and the National Urban League.

Smith’s artistry is rooted in storytelling. “Every event I design is a chance to tell a story, to capture a moment, and to honor the people and culture that inspire me,” he says.

His work has been celebrated not only for its stunning visual impact but also for the way it uplifts and empowers communities.

Giving back has remained a core part of his mission. In the years following Katrina, he established The Fashion Lab, an initiative that gave at-risk youth in New Orleans opportunities to explore fashion, design, and creativity.

Later, he founded The Authorized Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting disadvantaged multi-ethnic youth and young adults in Houston, helping them cultivate confidence and purpose.

“I want young people to know that no matter what happens, they can create their own path forward,” Smith explains.

As the nation marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, survivors like Hiram Smith remind us that the storm’s impact was more than physical; it was deeply emotional, cultural, and generational.

“Katrina changed me forever,” Smith reflects. “But it also showed me the strength of community, the power of creativity, and the importance of turning loss into purpose.”

Two decades after the storm, Hiram Smith stands as a testament to what it means to rise from ruin and transform pain into possibility.

His journey reflects the story of countless Katrina survivors who, despite unimaginable loss, forged new paths of resilience.

Through his artistry, philanthropy, and commitment to community, Smith continues to honor New Orleans while uplifting Houston and beyond.

“Remembering Katrina is not just about grief,” he says. “It’s about celebrating resilience, creativity, and the human spirit that refuses to be broken.”

Stay Connected with Hiram Smith

Website: hiramstyle.com

Instagram: @hiramstyle