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UNESCO, Haïti Jazz Foundation and MCC Unite for Kreyol Jazz
UNESCO, Haïti Jazz Foundation and MCC Unite for Kreyol Jazz
UNESCO, Haïti Jazz Foundation and MCC Unite for Kreyol Jazz

UNESCO, Haïti Jazz Foundation and MCC Unite for Kreyol Jazz

On Monday, April 28, 2025, UNESCO, represented by Mr. Éric Voli Bi, Director for Haiti, the Haïti Jazz Foundation, represented by Ms. Milena Sandler, Executive Director, and Mr. Joel Widmaier, Artistic Director of PAP Jazz, along with the Ministry of Culture and Communication, represented by Ms. Stéphanie Saint-Louis, Director of Cultural Affairs at the MCC, held a press conference at UNESCO’s office on Rue Geffrard in Pétion-Ville. During the event, they announced their alliance to promote Kreyol Jazz.

Summary

The press conference also marked the launch of a festival to be held from April 29 to May 3 in Pétion-Ville, Jacmel, and Cap-Haïtien. It will celebrate International Jazz Day on April 30 and will serve as a platform for major discussions on Kreyol Jazz. An international conference on April 29, themed "Kréyol Jazz: Multiple Identities, Market, a Musical Genre," will bring together experts, musicians, producers, researchers, broadcasters, and institutions from the Creole-speaking world to explore this unique genre that unites diverse styles (Vodou Jazz, Maloya Jazz, Biguine Jazz, Jazz Ka, Caribbean Jazz…) within the Francophone space.

Haïti
Haïti
Haïti

The goal is to enhance visibility, tap into its economic potential, and uncover new opportunities for Haïti and the wider Creole world. This festival will also echo the recent PAP Jazz Festival, reaffirming Haiti’s musical vibrancy despite ongoing political and security challenges.

According to the organizers, Kreyol Jazz reflects Haitian creativity and can enhance the country’s image. They used the global celebration of jazz to spark deep reflection on the benefits this genre could bring to Haiti.

Ms. Stéphanie, speaking on behalf of Minister Patrice Delatour, emphasized the Ministry’s strong support for this initiative, which not only promotes Haitian music but also the Creole language as a vital tool of national identity. She added that it could improve the livelihoods of many young Haitian musicians.

Haïti Music: Haitian artist Rutshelle Guillaume crowned  Best Caribbean Artist  at the Trace Awards & Festival 2023
Haïti Music: Haitian artist Rutshelle Guillaume crowned Best Caribbean Artist at the Trace Awards & Festival 2023

Haïti Music: Haitian artist Rutshelle Guillaume crowned “Best Caribbean Artist” at the Trace Awards & Festival 2023

The international music scene buzzed with excitement on Saturday, October 20, 2023 when talented Haitian singer Rutshelle Guillaume was crowned “Best Caribbean Artist” at the prestigious Trace Awards & Festival 2023, held in Kigali, Rwanda. This award recognizes a remarkable career and a significant contribution to the evolution of Caribbean music. Rutshelle Guillaume is an artist who has captured the hearts of music lovers thanks to her undeniable talent and her numerous quality productions. The Trace Awards & Festival is an event renowned for its promotion of Afrocentric music and culture. It is a platform that celebrates the musical diversity of the Caribbean while highlighting the creativity of the region. Caribbean artists are honored for their exceptional contribution to the enrichment of world music. Rutshelle Guillaume’s victory at this prestigious event is not only a tribute to her talent, but also a recognition of the richness of Caribbean music and its ability to transcend geographical boundaries. The Haitian singer knew how to embody this musical diversity and touched the hearts of many listeners around the world. Her career, marked by memorable titles and collaborations with other talented artists, has made her an ambassador for Caribbean music on an international scale. His commitment to promoting Haitian and Caribbean culture has helped strengthen ties between artists in the region and the rest of the world. Rutshelle Guillaume continues to inspire many emerging artists and show that passion, talent and dedication can lead to extraordinary achievements. His victory at the Trace Awards & Festival 2023 is a well-deserved tribute to his influence and undeniable contribution to Caribbean music. Ultimately, Rutshelle Guillaume’s recognition as "Best Caribbean Artist" at the Trace Awards & Festival 2023 is a reminder of the power of music to unite cultures and celebrate artistic diversity. It is a historic moment for the Haitian artist and a source of pride for the Caribbean as a whole. Rutshelle Guillaume continues to be an inspiration to many artists and music lovers around the world, and her music will live on as a testament to her incredible talent and dedication to her art.

Haïti
Haïti
Haïti

Joel Widmaier, representing the Haïti Jazz Foundation, expressed honor in being part of the project and highlighted the foundation’s pivotal role in spreading this genre in Haiti.

UNESCO, leading the initiative, emphasized through its Haïti Director that this festival is part of the "State-Citizen" relationship project, carried out with UNDP and IOM, and funded by the Peacebuilding Fund. The project aims to promote Kreyol Jazz as a distinct and marketable genre, celebrating Creole traditions and fusion in a spirit of social cohesion, youth inclusion, and cultural and economic development.

Rutshelle Guillaume and Blondedy Ferdinand Team Up to Launch RGGlow
Rutshelle Guillaume and Blondedy Ferdinand Team Up to Launch RGGlow

Rutshelle Guillaume and Blondedy Ferdinand Team Up to Launch RGGlow

Elephant Haitian music and film icons Rutshelle Guillaume and Blondedy Ferdinand are adding another string to their bow with the launch of "RGGlow," a premium skincare brand. This unprecedented collaboration reflects their shared commitment to female empowerment and the celebration of beauty in all its diversity. Set to launch on December 12, 2024, the "RGGlow" line promises products designed to nourish, rejuvenate, and brighten the skin. Made with quality ingredients, "RGGlow" products aim to meet the specific needs of women looking for effective and elegant solutions for their beauty routine. The official launch will take place during an exclusive event at Blondedy Ferdinand Studio, starting at 5 p.m. The event will bring together celebrities, beauty professionals, and fans to celebrate this unique initiative. This is an anticipated moment that will mark the beginning of an ambitious and inspiring project. Beforehand, an exclusive live will be broadcast on December 11 at 7 p.m. on all platforms, allowing the general public to discover the behind the scenes of this entrepreneurial adventure. Rutshelle Guillaume and Blondedy Ferdinand will share the inspirations behind RGGlow, while revealing some secrets about the products that make up this range. This project represents much more than a simple cosmetics brand. RGGlow positions itself as a symbol of unity and determination, carried by two powerful and influential figures. Through this collaboration, Rutshelle and Blondedy wish not only to offer quality products, but also to convey a strong message: every woman deserves to feel beautiful, radiant and confident.

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About the Author
Moise Francois
Moise Francois
Moise Francois

Journalist editor, poet and apprentice lawyer.

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History

History

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.

Natural beauty

Natural beauty

Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.

Heritage

Heritage

Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culture

Culture

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.

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