Meet Jocias Pitre, MS, C (ASCP) | Scientist & Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jocias Pitre, MS, C (ASCP) and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jocias, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Certainly! Here’s a response to the interview question:

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My thought process behind starting Kirrston’s Kollections, particularly our flagship product K’s Kreole Seasoning, was deeply rooted in a blend of family heritage and market insight. Growing up, my mother’s love for cooking was more than just a passion; it was a way of bringing people together and celebrating our Creole culture. The company is named in her honor, reflecting her influence and the rich culinary traditions she instilled in us.

We identified a significant gap in the Creole seasoning market. Despite the growing interest in high-end, authentic spices, there was a noticeable absence of premium Creole seasonings crafted by black Creole people from the rural South. This insight was a pivotal moment for us. We realized that there was not only an opportunity to introduce a superior product but also to tell our unique story through it.

Our approach with Kirrston’s Kollections is to merge our historic legacy with innovation. We are dedicated to preserving the authenticity and richness of Creole flavors while incorporating modern elements that appeal to today’s discerning consumers. This means carefully selecting the finest ingredients and utilizing traditional methods to create a seasoning that stands out in both quality and authenticity.

Ultimately, starting this business was about more than just entering a market; it was about honoring our heritage, sharing the flavors that have been a part of our family for generations, and filling a void with a product that resonates with authenticity and excellence. Our journey with K’s Kreole Seasoning is a testament to our commitment to these values and to bringing a piece of our culture to kitchens everywhere.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am both a scientist and an entrepreneur. By day, I immerse myself in the world of chemistry as a medical laboratory scientist. My academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Southern University and A&M College, where I proudly upheld our family tradition as a third-generation graduate. I then advanced my studies with a Master of Science in Toxicology from Colorado State University.

The spark for our business ignited during my time at Southern University when my mother embarked on creating her own seasoning blend. I jumped in with my graphic design skills to support her vision, and what started as a family project has blossomed into the vibrant enterprise known as Kirrston’s Kollections.

While my journey is still unfolding, I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved so far. Our flagship product, K’s Kreole Seasoning, represents more than just our personal triumphs. We are driven by a profound desire to make a positive impact on our community by reinvesting resources and fostering growth. Our mission is to celebrate our heritage, share the rich flavors of Creole cuisine, and contribute to the prosperity of our community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When they arrive, we’ll kick off the adventure with a lunch at Hearsay Market Square. After lunch, we’ll head over to Post Houston. The next morning, we’ll start our day at the Cockrell Butterfly Center at the Houston Museum of Natural Science then it’s off to The Galleria for some shopping. We’ll end the day with dinner at Ramen Tatsu-ya.
Next day, stop by the Museum of Fine Arts and Wild Coffee to relax and enjoy some great coffee. Dinner that night will be a treat at Il Bracco. The following morning, we’ll spend some time at Hermann Park and then tap into our creative sides with a pottery painting session at The Mad Potter, followed by a dinner at a local spot.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mom and Dad, Kirrston Mclendon and Joshua Pitre are guides in my life that have taught me invaluable lessons and supported me through through every step of life. Southern University and A&M College and Colorado State University played an instrumental role in my education and career progression within the realms of science and gave me so much insight on business as well.

Website: https://kirrstonskollections.com/

Other: TikTok: Cy.Flyy

Image Credits
Kenneth B.