During our recent five-week session, held with youth in Haiti, THE SPARK of Le Flambeau Spring 2025 group explored essential themes shaping Haiti’s present and future. From collaboration and national pride to emerging professions, women’s leadership, and historical inspiration, our conversations highlighted the vision, determination, and unity of young leaders committed to transforming their country – opinions expressed by youth in Haiti, all in English. Below is a recap of key take-aways from our weekly topics and the insightful contributions from participants. Directionally, the group discussions fell into two general perspectives – both perspectives are provided. This recap was prepared by group facilitator and English Grader, Ms. Alexis Floyd.
Week 1: Working Across Differences
Collaboration is a powerful tool for progress, even when opinions differ. Effective teamwork requires humility, mutual respect, and a shared vision. Participant Highlights:
Perspective 1 shared personal experiences of working in diverse teams, emphasizing that different perspectives can strengthen projects when united by common goals.
Perspective 2 stressed the importance of open discussion, understanding each person’s ideas, and finding common ground to ensure productive collaboration.
Week 2: National Pride as a Foundation for Progress
National pride is both an emotional force and a driver of collective action. Reconnecting with Haiti’s heritage can inspire unity and ambition. Participant Highlights:
Perspective 1 celebrated Haiti’s cultural treasures—its “FRANSIK” mangoes, Creole beauty, cuisine, and landscapes—while honoring its historic victory as the first Black republic.
Perspective 2 urged a revival of national pride, encouraging the preservation of traditions, values, and history as a pathway to a dignified and prosperous future.
Week 3: Professions Shaping Haiti’s Future
Identifying and preparing for emerging professions is essential for national development over the next decade.
Participant Highlights:
Perspective 1 outlined seven professions with high growth potential: ICT specialists, renewable energy technicians, healthcare workers, STEM educators, agro-entrepreneurs, construction engineers, and digital creatives.
Perspective 2 emphasized that these careers represent the pillars of Haiti’s long-term resilience and modernization.
Week 4: Empowering Women in Leadership
A balanced society requires women’s full participation in leadership roles across political, economic, and community spheres.
Participant Highlights:
Perspective 1 proposed strategies such as early access to education, leadership training, economic empowerment, and legal protections to support women leaders.
Perspective 2 affirmed that empowering women strengthens entire communities, fostering justice, equity, and progress.
Week 5: Honoring Toussaint Louverture
The life and leadership of Toussaint Louverture remain a source of inspiration for young Haitians seeking change.
Participant Highlights:
Perspective 1 described Louverture as a revolutionary visionary and “a little god” for leading the fight against Napoleon’s forces.
Perspective 2 reflected on his example as a call to lead with courage, integrity, and a commitment to Haiti’s independence and unity.
Final Thoughts
This five-week journey reinforced three core values: integrity, commitment, and service. Participants recognized the urgent need to address Haiti’s challenges—corruption, insecurity, underdevelopment—through united action and principled leadership.
Our youth leaders pledged to:
Begin development efforts in rural communities.
Learn from inspiring figures worldwide.
Build a society founded on honesty, courage, and mutual respect.
The SPARK of Le Flambeau discussions revealed that, just as unity and vision led to Haiti’s triumph in 1804, they remain the keys to our future. Together, we go further—toward a Haiti that reflects the very best of who we are and what we can become.
Le Flambeau Foundation , Inc.
### How to Get Involved
There are a number of ways to get involved with the Le Flambeau Foundation . As a supporter, you can donate to the foundation, volunteer your time, or become a mentor to a young person in Haiti. Feel free to contact us by clicking here.