In a country where daily difficulties can often seem insurmountable, Haitian youth need sources of inspiration to move forward. The LESPWA writing contest, initiated by Oriol ANTOINE, photographer and cultural activist, offers young people a unique opportunity to express themselves through words and share a message of encouragement and resilience.
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LESPWA is based on the idea that writing has the power to heal and inspire. The goal of the contest is simple: invite young people to write a letter addressed to a friend to encourage them to remain hopeful in the face of life’s challenges. This project aims to create a chain of solidarity through words and to remind people that, even in adversity, there is always a glimmer of hope.
Participating in the LESPWA competition is much more than writing a text. It is an invitation to:
- Freely express your thoughts and emotions.
- Spread a message of encouragement and perseverance.
- Highlight Haitian cultural and linguistic richness.
- Benefit from recognition and rewards for your literary talent.
The competition is open to young Haitians aged 16 to 30, and texts must meet the following criteria:
- Theme: Write an inspiring letter to a friend in difficulty.
- Accepted languages: French and Haitian Creole.
- Length of the text: Between 1,000 and 1,500 words.
- Required format:
- Font: Times New Roman, size 12.
- Length: 1 to 2 pages maximum.
Texts must be submitted before February 28, 2025, via:
- Email: antoinoriol@gmail.com
- WhatsApp: + (509) 4726 07 38
In order to encourage creativity and written expression, three winners will be distinguished:
- 1st place: 10,000 gourdes + books.
- 2nd place: 6,500 gourdes + books.
- 3rd place: Books.
Behind this initiative is Oriol ANTOINE, a passionate photographer and cultural activist. Convinced that Haitian youth is a force capable of overcoming hardships, he set up LESPWA to spread a message of hope and solidarity through literature.
Writing is a powerful weapon that can transform difficulties into opportunities. If you want to share your voice and be part of an inspiring project, don’t miss this unique opportunity!
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Haïti is a small but fascinating Caribbean country with a unique history, vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Located on the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with the Dominican Republic, Haïti is distinguished by its resilience, historical independence, and natural and cultural wealth. This article offers you a detailed overview of this impressive country, from its history to the geographical and cultural features that make it a must-see destination.
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The word “Haiti” is deeply rooted in the history and culture of the island, representing much more than just a name. It symbolizes an identity, a heritage, and a unique geography. But what is the true meaning of this iconic word? Let’s explore its origins, history, and symbolic significance.
In the annals of the history of Haiti, an island located in the Caribbean at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico and shared with the Dominican Republic, Jean-Jacques Dessalines emerges like a phoenix from the ashes of oppression. Born a slave on September 20, 1758 in the home of Henri Duclos, in Cormier (Grande-Rivière-du-Nord), in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, Dessalines was a Creole of African (Afro-Caribbean) origin. Freed during the 1794 abolition achieved through slave revolts, actually served as an officer in the French army during the French Revolution. At that time, the ideas of freedom and equality were at the heart of the concerns of the inhabitants of the colonies. Dessalines actively participated in the fighting against the Spanish and British forces, alongside the French, in Santo Domingo. Having risen to the rank of Lieutenant General, Jean-Jacques Dessalines turned against the French during the Leclerc expedition, sent to Saint-Domingue by Bonaparte to reestablish colonial authority and slavery during the Haitian Revolution. After the capture and deportation of Toussaint Louverture to France on June 7, 1802, Dessalines assumed a leading role in continuing the struggle for independence. He led numerous battles, including the battle of Crête-à-Pierrot in March 1802, where he galvanized his soldiers with his famous declaration: “Let those who want to remain slaves of the French leave the fort, let those, on the contrary, who want to die as free men, line up around me.” On January 1, 1804, Jean-Jacques Dessalines achieved the long-awaited goal of independence by proclaiming Haïti as a sovereign nation, becoming the second country in the Americas to gain independence from a colonial power. He became the first leader of the newly formed nation and was named Emperor under the name James I. However, his imperial reign was marked by authoritarian and brutal policies, including the massacre of many white settlers and the redistribution of land to peasants that was in the hands of the generals of the independence army. In addition, he organized the hunt for delinquents in the city while implementing rigorous agrarian policies, considering that they represented a threat to the stability of the nation, these controversial actions caused divisions within Haitian society. Dessalines was assassinated on October 17, 1806 following a plot organized by some of his generals in the Haitian army. His death marked the end of his brief but influential period in power. Despite the controversies surrounding his methods, he is recognized as the main architect of Haiti’s independence and his name was honored in 1903 by being attributed to the Haitian national anthem, La Dessalinienne, composed by Justin Lhérisson.Finally, the great visionary man Jean Jacques Dessalines remains an emblematic figure in the history of Haiti, recognized for his role in the fight for independence and the end of slavery in the region.
First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.
Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.
Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.
