The LEGACY LEADERSHIP AWARD 2025, organized by LEAD-ACADEMY, honored the committed youth of the commune of Carrefour. This prestigious event brought together nearly 200 young people and many local actors to celebrate exemplary leadership in a region facing many challenges.
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Founded in December 2020 by Dwinny Belval, a governance technician, LEAD-ACADEMY’s mission is to train a new generation of responsible leaders in Haiti. Through training and action, this structure supports young people towards holistic development, allowing them to fully exploit their potential.
Despite a climate of insecurity marked by the presence of armed gangs in Carrefour, many young people demonstrate incredible resilience. Engaged in citizen initiatives and impact projects, they embody the hope and renewal of their community. The LEGACY LEADERSHIP AWARD was designed to recognize and encourage these young people to continue their efforts.
The event began with a conference hosted by Sony Lamarre Joseph, CEO of Radio Lumière and best-selling author. He shared concrete tools to encourage young people to leave their positive mark on the world. Kimberline Noel moderated the discussions brilliantly, providing an engaging dynamic.
During this first edition of the LEGACY LEADERSHIP AWARD, several young people were rewarded for their leadership and exceptional contribution:
- Roobens Louis
- Hajiel Junior Pierre
- Judelin Isaac Jean
- Pierre Rubens Emmanuel Moreau
- Juan Roberto K. Thomas
- Schaëlda P. Joseph
The ceremony was honored by the presence of Mr. Valery Jean Paul, entrepreneur and rector of Grace Academy Of Theology, who praised this initiative and encouraged the winners to continue their commitment.
The event brought together a diverse and engaged audience. After an official presentation by Darlise Sintumas, Public Affairs Manager, a networking session allowed participants to exchange and strengthen their ties.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the musical performance of Grace Marcelin, who captivated the audience. The festive atmosphere, supported by light shows and special effects, added a magical dimension to the ceremony. The motivational speech by Edrice G. Payen, project coordinator, also left a strong impression on the participants.
A Strong Message from the CEO During his speech, Dwinny Belval left his mark on the audience with these inspiring words:
Become the leader you want to see in your community.
He stressed the importance of celebrating and encouraging youth engagement, emphasizing the rarity of initiatives that value their impact.
The ceremony was enriched by the participation of more than twenty local organizations, including:
- KOZE JEN YO
- VICODEC
- Coding Club Carrefour
- ANN KREYE
- CrazuGlote
- VIP
- Inspire Youth Center
- Antreprenarya San Dola
- OCEEV
This diversity of participants testifies to the scale and impact of the initiative.
The LEGACY LEADERSHIP AWARD has proven that committed and determined youth can change their reality. The 2026 edition is already shaping up to be an even more ambitious event, bringing hope and opportunities for the new generation of Haitian leaders.
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The joyful ringing of bells echoes through the streets of Haïti as the holiday season approaches. Christmas is a magical time when the streets light up, families gather and a warm atmosphere invades the island. Between traditions, cultural discoveries and gourmet feasts, Christmas in Haïti promises a unique experience. b~The Magic of Lights and Decorations~b From the beginning of December, Haïti is adorned with sparkling lights and festive decorations. The markets come alive with shimmering garlands, twinkling stars and ornate fir trees. The streets of Port-au-Prince in Jacmel shine with a special magic, inviting locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the festive spirit. b~Haitian Traditions at Christmas~b Christmas in Haïti is celebrated with a unique combination of religious traditions and local customs. Midnight Mass is a deeply rooted tradition, drawing worshipers to churches to celebrate the birth of Jesus in a vibrant atmosphere of song and prayer. A popular tradition is the "Dawn Mass" which takes place at dawn on December 25. The faithful gather to welcome Christmas Day with special fervor, testifying to the deep spirituality that permeates the festivities. The festivities are not limited to churches. Street parades, folk dances and concerts are commonplace, creating a joyful atmosphere throughout the country. Traditional Haitian music, such as direct compass and voodoo, adds a special dimension to these celebrations. b~Cultural Discoveries: Haitian Crafts~b Christmas is also an ideal opportunity to discover unique Haitian crafts. Christmas markets offer a variety of handicrafts, such as wooden sculptures, vivid paintings, wrought iron items and traditional jewelry. These works of art reflect the artistic talent of the Haitian people and provide unique and meaningful gifts. Local markets, such as the Ferrier market in Cap-Haitien and the Jacmel market, are essential places to discover the authenticity of Haitian crafts. These purchases also help support local artists and the community economy. b~Gourmet Feasts: Christmas Cuisine~b Christmas in Haïti is also a gastronomic celebration. Families gather around festive tables laden with traditional culinary delights. “Joumou soup”, a pumpkin soup, is an essential specialty of the holiday season. Pork, lamb and chicken dishes are also common, accompanied by rice and local vegetables. Traditional desserts, such as “Pen patat” and “Tablèt Pistach,” add a sweet touch to the celebration. Tropical fruits, such as mangoes and bananas, are also often present on Christmas tables, recalling the richness of Haitian biodiversity. Christmas in Haïti is a vibrant celebration that blends the magic of lights, religious traditions, local crafts and delicious cuisine. It is a time when joy and generosity are in the spotlight, and when Haitians open their hearts to share the magic of the season with the world.
The Jacmel Jazz Festival, one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year in Haiti, returns in force with its 8th edition. Organized by the cultural association of the same name, under the direction of Richecard Cine, founding president, the festival will take place on April 30, 2024 in the picturesque town of Jacmel, known for its rich artistic and cultural heritage.
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Haiti, a pearl of the Caribbean, not only boasts picturesque landscapes and rich history, but also offers a variety of culinary delights that tantalize the taste buds from the first meal of the day. Haitian breakfast, an exquisite blend of local flavors and culinary traditions, is an experience in its own right. Let’s discover together some ideas to start your day in the most delicious way possible.
Nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Jacmel, in southeastern Haiti, Bassin Bleu is a true haven of tranquility in the heart of nature. Its crystal-clear blue waters and imposing rock formations make it a breathtakingly beautiful site, attracting travelers from around the world in search of escape and discovery. The sparkling turquoise waters of Bassin Bleu offer a feast for the eyes, inviting visitors to relax and rejuvenate in this idyllic setting. Whether swimming in its refreshing waters or lounging on its lush green banks, this natural oasis provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, Bassin Bleu is home to exceptional biodiversity, with a multitude of unique plants and animals to discover. Hiking enthusiasts can venture along winding trails that meander through the surrounding forest, offering spectacular views of this pristine landscape. As a tourist destination, Bassin Bleu also offers economic development opportunities for local communities. By promoting sustainable tourism, it contributes to job creation, infrastructure development, and the promotion of local culture. Moreover, by raising awareness among visitors about the importance of preserving this fragile natural environment, tourism plays an essential role in its long-term conservation. Bassin Bleu in Jacmel is much more than just a tourist attraction: it is a true natural treasure to be preserved and appreciated. With its stunning natural beauty, remarkable biodiversity, and sustainable development opportunities, this magical place offers an authentic experience for travelers seeking moments of tranquility in the heart of nature.
Sandra Dessalines is a self-taught Haitian painter, sculptor, and visual artist. She was born in Port-au-Prince but grew up in the commune of Carrefour. Today, she is an ambassador who brings Haitian culture to life through her art all over the world, particularly in France, where she has lived for more than a decade. An Honorable Journey Sandra Dessalines trained as an agricultural engineer at Quisqueya University in Port-au-Prince and continued her studies at INSA in Toulouse, France. Her official entry into the world of art came after the devastating earthquake that ravaged her homeland, Haiti, on January 12, 2010. This event pushed her towards art, allowing her to reach the level she occupies today. In terms of recognition, Sandra Dessalines has made a name for herself, with her original style, inspired by her native Haiti, gaining increasing recognition from major event organizers in Paris. In October 2024, she even received the public prize at Lmh Concept Events Art and Design for their 10th anniversary in Paris. This award perfectly reflects the originality of her work and her ability to touch people’s hearts through her creation.
Haïti is a country located in the Caribbean, occupying the western third of the island of Hispaniola which it shares with the Dominican Republic. With a rich and complex history, Haïti stands out for its vibrant culture, unique heritage and resilience in the face of challenges.
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.
Merci infiniment!
February 01, 2025 - 08:52:09 AMMerci a vous et félicitation à toute l'equipe de LEAD ACADEMY.
February 01, 2025 - 11:50:06 AMThis is an interesting project therefore I would like to make part of it.
February 12, 2025 - 10:40:39 AM