Queen Zulu-Select 2026 Announced at New Orleans Airport

Sharell Monique Chatman selected as Queen for Zulu 2026 parade

Feb. 1, 2026 at 2:15pm

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The official ceremony for the unveiling of the 2026 Zulu Queen-Select was held on February 1 at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Sharell Monique Chatman, a graduate of Xavier Preparatory High School and Northwestern State University of Louisiana, was selected as Queen for Zulu 2026 by King-Elect Zulu 2026 Ron Tassin.

Why it matters

The selection of the Zulu Queen is a highly anticipated annual tradition in New Orleans, as the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club is one of the most prominent Mardi Gras krewes in the city. Chatman's selection continues the legacy of the Zulu parade and highlights the involvement of young, accomplished women in the city's cultural celebrations.

The details

Chatman, who works in the Engineering Department of Jefferson Parish Government, is responsible for infrastructure planning and process optimization. She is also involved in various community organizations, including the Kenner Calvary Baptist Church, the Omicron Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Sorority, and the Audrey Mae Tassin Foundation, named in honor of her grandmother.

  • The official ceremony for the unveiling of the 2026 Zulu Queen-Select was held on February 1, 2026.

The players

Sharell Monique Chatman

The 2026 Zulu Queen-Select, a graduate of Xavier Preparatory High School and Northwestern State University of Louisiana with dual degrees in industrial engineering technology and sociology, and a master's degree in computer engineering from Colorado State University. She works in the Engineering Department of Jefferson Parish Government and is involved in various community organizations.

Ron Tassin

The King-Elect Zulu 2026, who selected Sharell Monique Chatman as the 2026 Zulu Queen-Select.

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What’s next

The Zulu parade and other Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans will take place in the coming weeks, with Chatman serving as the 2026 Zulu Queen.

The takeaway

The selection of Sharell Monique Chatman as the 2026 Zulu Queen-Select continues the rich tradition of the Zulu parade and highlights the involvement of young, accomplished women in New Orleans' vibrant cultural celebrations.