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South LA Highlight: 27th Street Bakery
Jeanette Bolden-Pickens is the third-generation owner of 27th Street Bakery, a historic South LA business known nationwide for its legendary sweet potato pies. A proud Angeleno, she took over the family legacy started by her grandfather in 1956—keeping its deep community roots while expanding its reach across the country. Under her leadership, the bakery has weathered everything from economic shifts to a global pandemic, all while staying true to its mission of serving tradition by the slice.
Before returning to the family business, Jeanette was a world-class sprinter and Olympic gold medalist. She later became one of the most respected coaches in the sport, leading the UCLA women’s track team and making history in 2008 as the first Olympic gold medalist to head the U.S. women’s track and field team at the Olympics. Her path from the Olympic podium to running one of LA’s most iconic family businesses reflects a lifelong commitment to excellence.
Resources:
Instagram: 27thstreetbakery
Community Announcments
FamilySource Centers: LA4Families.org
Legacy Business Grants: bit.ly/LAlegacy (link is case-sensitive)
LA Business Source Centers: bit.ly/BusinessSource10 (link is case-sensitive)
