HAITI OPEN Fall 2021 by Haiti Open, Inc.

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DR. CLONES LANS

Moved to a State-of-the-Art Facility &Added Aesthetic Services By Kira J. Lans

r Clones Lans has been in practice for about 25 years and has broken many glass ceilings in his quest to deliver exceptional care to his patients and their families. “Think about those times you’re with someone you trust and the conversation just seems to come naturally. Those times when you can be yourself and just talk straight. Strange as it may sound, this is actually a useful way to frame your ideal OB-GYN relationship. This is the feeling one gets when visiting Dr. Lans”, said one patient. His humility, his openness, his charismatic charm and his compassionate approach to care exude intelligence, wisdom and a superior intellect. Dr. Clones Lans who is a Board-Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), received his Medical Degree from L’Université D’Etat D’Haiti and his OBGYN Specialty at Nassau University Medical Center in Long Island, New York. He has advanced expertise in Water Birth Methods, High-Risk Obstetrics and Laparoscopic GYN surgery. He was an OBGYN attending physician at Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center, Bronx, NY where he served

as assistant professor in OBGYN at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Since he moved to Florida he serves as Clinical Professor in Obstetrics and Gynecology for Ross University, American University of the Caribbean, NOVA Southeastern University, South University and Saint Georges University, to name a few.

Dr. Clones Lans practice focuses on Women’s Health, Obstetrics, Infertility and Aesthetics in harmony with worldclass technology and wit.

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midst of the pandemic, he moved his office to a brand-new location on 70 NE 167th St, Miami FL 33162, to better accommodate his patients. For 2022, he envisions an AntiAging and Wellness Institute where women can enhance their wellness inside and out. Sois Belle Aesthetic Clinic is set to deliver a high-quality experience in Medical Spa and Aesthetics. The institute will offer a mosaic of services to create a wellbalanced mind, body and soul. Sois Belle is equipped to provide the finest aesthetic improvements available. “I feel like it’s really going to be a natural fit,” said Dr. Vanessa Verna, who admittingly is eager about this new initiative in the community. “Dr. Clones Lans is the perfect combination of a physician dedicated to the health and diversity of our community who will bring innovations in aesthetics and women’s health, and post-pandemic best practices to cutting edge technology ever used in healthcare.” Dr Verna added. Dr. Clones Lans practice focuses on Women’s Health, Obstetrics, Infertility and Aesthetics in harmony with world-class technology and wit. He is an amazing professional and a best-in-class provider.

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CONTENTS| FALL 2021 BUSINESS | 36 Balancing Life Clifford Dessables Karoll-Ann Fanfan Saveurs Lakay Kremas NGG Entertainment

INTERVIEWS | 42 Beatrice Cazeau, ESQ. Rose Seide, MD Patrick Romeus, MD Jim Francois, MD

HEALTH | 50 Romane Romeus, MD Kowonaviris en Ayiti

YEAR IN PHOTOS | 57 Les Cayes Earthquake Jovenel Moise Texas Border

HAITIAN EXCELLENCE | 64 Davidson Petit-Frère Karine Jean-Pierre Naomi Osaka Reginald Desroches Pascal Desroches Julie Jules Bedjine x K-Dilak Samuel Dameus Angie Bell x Tico Armand

COVER STORY | 82 Prinston & Edwige Jean-Glaude Primary Grand Openings

CULTURE IN REVIEW | 92 2021 Albums Caribbean Fest Loyal-T Series

TALK TO US

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JEAN ALFRED DELVA Editor-in-Chief Delva@HaitiOpen.com Cover PRINSTON & EDWIGE JEAN-GLAUDE Miami, FL Photographer MAYBELINE DUGUÉ DESPAGNE @MaybelinePhotography Graphic Designer MENDES CHEVALIER @mendes_1812, 786-267-0108 Proofreader ALEC ROSS Layout MOHAMMAD "MA" ALAUDIN Photographers: MACKINLEY 'SPEX' MADHERE JOHNY 'REDLIGHT' LUC GERRY BRIERRE RICARDO SAINT-CYR CAREL SYLVAIN JAZZYFOTOGRAFI RICHARD LECOIN TEDDY ALVAREZ FELIX MARQUEZ Writers: SHELLY-ANN KING ALEX POPA FORD PIERRE NEPHTALIE HYACINTHE KIRA J. LANS JEN RICE JULIA LAROCHE AYESHA RASCOE Haiti Representative: PETERSON AGERNORD, PORT-AU-PRINCE +509-3488-2714

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Arts Gallery Arts and Crafts Rooms Caribbean Marketplace - "Mache Ayisien" Community Center Courtyard Dance Studio Miami Heat Rooms (Learn + Play Center) Proscenium Theater HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2021

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Clifford Dessables

CLIFFORD DESSABLES EDE ANTREPRENÈ AYISYEN Grandi Biznis yo sou Entènèt la san ke yo pa bezwen Popilè By Alex Popa

lifford Dessables is more than just a business coach for the Haitian community. He’s a Haitian immigrant who came to the US to start a new life. Though he’d graduated from high school, he couldn’t attend college because he was an undocumented immigrant. However, he still went to a technical school to pursue his love for computers, hoping it would reward him later. Eventually, he completed a Microsoft Administrator course and received a certificate, which led to a job at a call center serving Bellsouth fast-access internet users. This was in 2003, and since then, he’s gone through highs and lows that shaped his success. Academically, he’s also majored in MIS and Computer Network Security. Today, Clifford Dessables is a business growth coach and the owner of Focused Media.

WAS IT EASY FOR CLIFFORD DESSABLES TO GET HERE?

Clifford claims he didn’t have it easy trying to become an entrepreneur. As an undocumented immigrant in the US, even attending college was impossible. However, that didn’t stop him from pursuing his interest in computers. His call center job opened many doors and eventually culminated with the establishment of his first company, TelPlus Long Distance, in 2010. In his first year alone, he

sold more than $1.2 million worth of telecommunication services to a mostly Haitian audience with a team of 10 employees and 15 contractors. However, the emergence of calling apps in 2015 led to the end of the company. Things got tough for him after he was laid off as a Senior Engineer at Citrix Systems, but he took this as an opportunity to build his agency and coaching businesses. Both now generate six-figure revenues. The best decision in his life, according to Clifford, was investing $10,000 in a partner coaching program with DigitalMarketer.com in 2018. There, he was coached by some of the most brilliant minds in the marketing business, including Billy Gene and Ryan Deiss. With this added knowledge, he founded Focused Media and, in 2019, his coaching business.

HOW CAN HE HELP YOU?

In his own words, Clifford can “help entrepreneurs move faster.” Through education, he can help aspiring businesspeople create a valuable customer journey. He emphasizes the power of conversation as a path towards business intimacy. In turn, business intimacy will lead to more sales and more revenue. Below, you’ll find a list of skills that Clifford can help you refine: • Identifying Ideal Clients • How to Attract Clients • Leverage Stories to Build Trust

… his first company, TelPlus Long Distance, in 2010. In his first year alone, he sold more than $1.2 million worth of telecommunication services to a mostly Haitian audience with a team of 10 employees and 15 contractors. • How to Create the Perfect Offer • Get Clients to Buy More from You All of this comes under the umbrella of the Grow Your Business Challenge launched by Clifford. He’s a business coach not only for the Haitian community but for any business out there. Some of the brands he’s improved include Lakay Food, Saveurs Lakay, TaxFit, Chic Couture Online, and more. All of them are six- and seven-figure businesses. He’s also deeply invested in Haitian-related philanthropy. You can connect with Clifford Dessables & @CliffDessables me@cliffdessables.com.

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Kouka’s Closet is an online clothing store for plus-sized women around the world.

sized women around the world. Growing up in Haiti, Karoll-Ann had to deal with body-shaming, inappropriate comments, and plussized clothing that was unappealing and unfashionable. Even after she emigrated to America, it was more of the same. That’s when she decided to do something about all the negativity. She wanted to feel good about her curves, and the clothes she wore had to reflect that. The result of that desire was Kouka’s Closet. Instead of boring, tasteless, and unfashionable clothes, curvy women around the worldcan now get fresh and vibrant outfits that helping them look as good as they feel. Kouka’s Closet can turn a boring wardrobe into a colorful assortment

KAROLL-ANN “KOUKA” FANFAN Leading Tax Preparer and Fashion Trendsetter By Alex Popa

aroll-Ann Fanfan is a HaitianAmerican entrepreneur and owner of Kouka’s Closet and TaxFit LLC. These two companies may seem worlds apart in terms of what they do, but they have one thing in common – the woman that leads them. Karoll-Ann Fanfan,

better known as Kouka, is both a professional tax preparer and a fashion trendsetter, and she juggles the two activities wonderfully.

WHAT IS KOUKA’S CLOSET?

In the words of Karoll-Ann herself, Kouka’s Closet is an online clothing store that serves plus-

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of well-fitting clothes suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re going into town with your friends or a high-end restaurant with your date, Karoll-Ann knows exactly how to dress you. It’s a stylish clothing shop full of flair and dazzling plus-sized pieces tailor-made for any plussized queen!

WHAT IS TAXFIT LLC?

Karoll-Ann’s other business, TaxFit, offers personalized tax preparation

BUSINESS

services for individuals. She can do your personal and state taxes. If you have an LLC, she can file those taxes as well. The company is always up-tospeed with the ever-changing tax laws and offers complete tax preparation. TaxFit can keep you updated on the best tax planning strategies and greatly simplify your life! They can offer a copy of your tax return or email you the latest tax deadlines. All in all, TaxFit and Karoll-Ann Fanfan can help you with the following: • Tax Preparation & Planning – as an authorized IRS E-file provider, Karoll-Ann will prepare your 1040 including your Profit and Loss, Schedule C, and State Returns. • Assistance with Tax Problems – Appeals and collections, non-filers, prior-year or amended returns, responding to IRS inquiries, lien and levy releases, offers in compromises and payments plans.

Kouka’s Closet and TaxFit are the business ventures that allow her to leave a mark on the world. We’ll cover her story should anything out of the ordinary happen – but until then, we’re proud to say that Karoll-Ann Fanfan is a great example of Haitian success. She

honed her potential and managed to achieve her dreams! TaxFit, LLC www.taxfitrefund.com Kouka’s Closet www.koukascloset.com

WHO IS KAROLL-ANN FANFAN?

Karoll-Ann Fanfan is a proud Haitian-American entrepreneur. She uses her social media presence to inspire and educate her followers. Like many emigrants, she came here for a better life. Today, she stays grounded and uses her accomplishments to give back and share, empowering the next dream-makers to know that nothing is impossible.

TaxFit provides comprehensive services suitable for anyone working in any sector. HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2021 37 «

Rossiny Brenelus President

Chiline Pierre Manager

Jean Petion President

NU GENERATION GOSPEL ENTERTAINMENT (NGG) Elevating Haitian-American Musicians with Industry-Leading Marketing Practices

By Alex Popa

u Generation Gospel Entertainment, LLC (NGG) is an event production company that manages artists within the Haitian-American gospel music sector. Rossiny Brenelus and Jean Petion established the company in 2010, and today the combined experience of the two owners brings the company’s motto – “Elevate!” – to life!

WHAT CAN THEY DO FOR ARTISTS?

NGG deals with artist management, record labeling, event promotion and marketing, public relations, branding, printing and packaging, professional referencing, and event consultation. They also implement superior industry practices such as: • Strong promotional packages • Better image branding • Crossover from compact prints to online marketing This is a company founded on the belief that great talent needs excellent branding to flourish. Many Haitian-American musicians have benefited from NGG’s industryleading marketing practices

over the years. The company has encountered obstacles along the way, but overcome them all in its relentless quest for success!

WHAT HAS NGG ACCOMPLISHED IN 2021 AND WHAT’S NEXT?

As 2021 comes to a close, NGG has completed many of its annual goals. Even though the pandemic slowed its progress, the company made a difference in several ways: • Haiti’s Earthquake Relief effort, “Ban m Bay”, where NGG’s Haiti team helped manage the contributions of many donors by delivering kits to people impacted by the disaster living in the isolated mountainous regions of Port Salut and Tiburon. • Organized and staffed the corporate launch party for Dr. Stephanie Thomas, Desired DentalMed Services. • Organized the 50th anniversary celebration of the legendary Maestro Jean Rene Charles’s music ministry. • Organized the 1st Annual NGG Thanksgiving Gospel Festival,

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an outdoor event hosted on Thanksgiving Day that featured local, national, and international artists. In the future, NGG plans to develop its community outreach programs and elevate rising talents to achieve the industry’s highest success. They have many projects in mind for 2022, such as the release of several music videos for the artists they manage and several singles. In March 2022, NGG plans to organize a closing concert titled “Legendary” to honor Maestro Jean Rene Charles for his accomplishments in the Haitian gospel genre. We’ll be watching how the situation unfolds and keep you updated! Rossiny Brenelus and Jean Petion have a combined experience of 30 years in the Gospel music industry. They know how to elevate an artist’s impact on the public and what directions to navigate for added professionalism and success. This vision is at the helm of NGG’s efforts to bring Haitian-American Gospel Music further than it’s ever been.

Website: www.nggent.com

BUSINESS

USA TEAM

HAITI TEAM

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Saveurs Lakay Kremas is a popular Haitian alcoholic drink concocted by Srane E. Dessables (pictured), a woman of incredible willpower and determination.

Srane E. Dessables

The Woman Behind the Deliciously Enjoyable Saveurs Lakay Kremas By Alex Popa Saveurs Lakay Kremas is a popular Haitian alcoholic drink concocted by Srane E. Dessables, a woman of incredible willpower and determination. Her journey into Haitian Kremas began in the Dominican Republic, and after coming to America, homesickness led her to try to improve on the traditional recipe from Haiti. Eventually, she came up with Saveurs Lakay kremas. She didn’t follow a particular recipe, so the result was a unique creation that, according to her

friends, was delicious. The process took many failed attempts but, in the end, Saveurs Lakay Kremas took form. The name means “flavors from home” – a perfect reflection of her homesickness turned into a love for Haiti!

WHO IS SRANE E. DESSABLES?

She is Haitian-born and raised, served her country as a medical doctor for more than six years, and is now pursuing a medical career in the United States. After migrating to

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America in 2016, her homesickness resurfaced and she again started making Kremas. This time, a bunch of friends kept asking her for it, which gave her the idea to serve homesick Haitian expatriates. Now, she’s a proud business owner and the genius behind Saveurs Lakay. This Haitian beverage is a sweet alcoholic drink made from creamed coconut, rum, cinnamon, lemon, sweetened condensed milk, and more. It’s a traditional holiday drink in Haiti! Saveurs Lakay is based in Florida and has served

BUSINESS

thousands of customers. Srane wanted to bring the Haitian Diaspora a sweet and exotic taste from her native country, and that’s exactly what she’s done with Kremas. Balancing family life, academia, and entrepreneurship didn’t slow the young woman’s momentum either, as she reconciled everything wonderfully. Her mission was clear: you don’t have to lose your culture after leaving your motherland – and her Haitianowned business is a powerful reminder of that. It’s even more fascinating that the origin of the Saveurs Lakay phenomenon was nothing more than a feeling of homesickness. It wasn’t a grand dream that eventually came to fruition, but a simple moment of remembrance for her country. That moment eventually galvanized the perfected recipe of Kremas Saveurs Lakay, Srane’s unique recipe.

QUALITY PRODUCT AND GREAT ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Saveurs Lakay’s popularity isn’t only due to its delicious flavor and sweet aroma. Indeed, the drink is creamy, sweet, and otherwise scrumptious, a true

close cousin of Haiti’s Kremas. But the woman behind the beverage also deserves a round of applause for her leadership of her company and love for her country. She devised a superior customer relationship management system that relies on customer feedback to improve the company’s services. The drink remains the same but customer interactions have gone through several improvements over the years. Srane E. Dessables is determined to innovate Savers Lakay as much as possible and obtain international recognition for its quality. In all honesty, Savers Lakay Kremas is already becoming a standard among other Kremas beverages. Srane may have fumbled from failure to failure to find this recipe, but all that work had paid off. You can taste Saveurs Lakay Kremas by visiting (WWW.FREEKREMAS.COM) and re-quest two samples, which will be sent to you anywhere in the U.S. for free as a gift from Srane E. Dessables to you.

www.FreeKremas.com HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2021 41 «

BEATRICE CAZEAU, ESQ.

SERVANT OF THE COMMUNITY Written by Shelly-Ann M. Parkinson

bout a year after completing her undergraduate studies at John Jay College and applying for a position with the Department of Fraud Investigations, Beatrice Cazeau felt a slight nudge on her feet in the wee hours one morning. It was her mother. “Beatrice, what’s the plan?” She was referring to law school. The mother told her daughter that now was the time to apply. While Beatrice believes her first conscious recollection of wanting to become a lawyer occurred in a class called “Everyday Law” at Sarah J. Hale High School in Brooklyn, New York, she shared with Haiti Open that her mother told her she’d expressed those inclinations much earlier in life. Having majored in criminal justice and taken minors in criminology administration and planning and sociology, Beatrice could have chosen several different career paths. But her mother kept her focused on her destiny. By the time Beatrice began law school at the New England School of Law, her mother had already reached out to her network of friends and relatives in the Boston area to foster her, especially through those harsh New England winters. She needed that network, as her strength, fortitude, and faith were

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INTERVIEW quickly tested in her first year in law school after her mother suffered a stroke. Beatrice had to travel between Boston and New York regularly during this time to see her mother, and most of her studying took place on the bus. Her mother continued to push her to stay focused, and Beatrice became even more determined to succeed. During this difficult time, she managed to make the Dean’s list and received numerous academic awards. Besides her mother’s constant encouragement, Beatrice was also motivated to study and practice law because of the lack of representation of Haitian Americans in the legal field as she was growing up. Born in Petionville, Haiti, Beatrice arrived in the United States on her 12th birthday. Her family lived in Asbury Park, New Jersey before moving to Crown Heights, Brooklyn. In her mostly immigrant community, when her family and neighbors needed legal help, lawyers just did not look like them and certainly did not speak Kreyol. Beatrice was on a mission to change that. “I always wanted to be a prosecutor,” said Beatrice. “So I did my internships at the Office of the Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.” After law school, she applied to several state attorneys’ offices, the Bronx District Attorney’s Office, and the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office. She accepted a position as a prosecutor with the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office in 1999, remained there for three years, then formed a private practice with a partner. That practice was dissolved in May 2018, and Beatrice has been operating The Law Offices of Cazeau & Associates, her solo private practice, since then. Cazeau & Associates handles cases in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Beatrice’s 20 years of legal experience allows her to cover areas such as family law, divorce, child support, domestic violence, injunction, car accidents, and real estate. In addition to her practice, Beatrice also serves as Special Magistrate for the City of North Miami and presides over code compliance hearings. She’s also the legal counsel for the Nuisance Abatement Board and the Unsafe Structures Board for the City of Miami Gardens and a member of the Broward County Fair Campaign Practices Board. She is also a member of the Miami-Biscayne Bay Links Incorporated chapter, a not-for-profit community service organization she refers to as a “wonderful group of professional women.” Beatrice Cazeau is a woman of faith and believes everything in her life has been ordained by God. “God has a path for me, and I am doing everything in His path,” she says. “God has placed people in my path and opened doors for me. When I first moved to South Florida, I knew four people. God has blessed me in so many ways.” Beatrice believes that because of the opportunities she’s been given, she has a responsibility to give back. She does so abundantly, without hesitation. For many years, Beatrice was a familiar face on Island TV as the host of “Info Legal” and “Koze Legal,” as a

“Quitting was never an option,” recalls Beatrice. representative of the Haitian Lawyers Association. She spoke about legal issues concerning the South Florida Haitian community. Currently, she hosts a weekly series calls “Koze Legal AvekMaitre Beatrice Cazeau” on social media (Facebook Live), which seeks to enlighten, empower, and educate the Haitian-American community on pertinent legal topics and current events. “I call myself a servant of the community,” says Beatrice. “I love to give back and want others to see that if I can make it, they can too.” Her sense of identity is strong, as being Haitian is her foundation and the core of who she is. She knows she made her parents proud before they passed away, and their prayers – and prayers of men and women in the community who she doesn’t even know – continue to sustain her. That’s what keeps her going: knowing that she has a solid client base in the Haitian community. As a result, she works tirelessly on their behalf. She also encourages the next generation by being there to answer questions, visit schools, and offer internships to high school students who would like an opportunity to shadow her and learn what it takes to be an attorney. CONTACT INFORMATION

Cazeau Law Firm 1909 NE 168th Street, North Miami Beach, FL 33162 (305) 614-0702 Info@cazeaulawfirm.com www.cazeaulawfirm.com @cazeaulawfirm

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Dr Rose-May Seide, MD

PUTTING PATIENTS FIRST Prima Health Center is Here for You! By Alex Popa

rima Health Center is a top-quality healthcare center located in South Florida that always follows the latest medical guidelines when treating its patients. Dr. Rose-May Seide, a Family Medicine specialist and Diplomate of the American Board of Family Medicine, heads the clinic, and her 20+ years of experience as a family physician are indicative of her expertise and professionalism!

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INTERVIEW

Prima Health Center

Grand Opening

ABOUT PRIMA HEALTH CENTER

Prima Health Center was founded on the belief that helping others is a foremost quality in humans. Dr. Seide channeled all her experience as a family physician and medical director of a health center to build Prima Health Center. As the medical needs of the community grew, so did Prima’s efficiency and medical skills.

For Dr. Rose-May Seide, M.D., all about putting patients first

Prima Health Center aspires to become the primary destination for patient care in the area. It strives for excellence through dedication, care, compassion, and competence. Dr. Seide has been board-certified three times, which only goes to prove Prima Health Center’s superior medical quality.

DR. SEIDE’S BACKGROUND

Dr. Seide graduated from the Université d'Etatd' HaitiFaculté De Médecine et de Pharmacie in 1992. She continued to work as a clinician in Haiti and then emigrated to South Florida and proceeded to finish her residency training in Family Medicine at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital. During her residency, Dr. Seide received the Women’s Health Award and the Resident Teacher Award. She practiced as a family physician for 20 years and took on the Medical Director position at a health center in Miami for 13 years. During this time, she had physician

Exam Room

Waiting Room

assistants, nurse practitioners, and staff under her watch. Naturally, this helped her develop administrative skills and further honed her medical aptitude. It all culminated in the creation of Prima Health Center. She brought together a group of competent individuals who all sought the same thing – to make Prima Health Center the most effective, convenient, and professional medical center it could be!

LIST OF SERVICES

Prima Health Center offers a variety of medical services, including but not limited to: • Primary Care • Lab Tests • EKG Testing • Telemedicine • Family Medicine • Immigration and DOT Physicals • Women’s Health: Pap Smears, GYN

WHY PRIMA

Prima Health Center offers personalized family medicine for men, women, adolescents, and the elderly. With their state-of-the-art facilities, short waiting, times, and costeffective medical services, they’re in the best position to serve anyone in South Florida. Proud of her Haitian roots, Dr. Seide cares for a large Haitian population but also takes pride in providing health care to the entire multi-cultural community of South Florida. She speaks fluent English, Spanish, Haitian Kreyol, and French. Dr. Seide loves making a difference in her patients' lives and serving a multi-generational population. CONTACT INFORMATION: Prima Health Center 125 NE 167th Street, North Miami Beach, FL 33162, 305-217-7462 primahealthcenter.com @primahealthcenter

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MEET DR. PATRICK ROMEUS

The Internal Medicine Physician at the Helm of Preferred Family Care, a 100% Haitian-Staffed Gift to the Community Written by Shelly-Ann M. Parkinson + Photo by Johny Luc

iving back has been a consistent theme in Dr. Patrick Romeus’ life. He was raised by his grandmother, and his humble beginnings in the little town of CampPerrin in the South of Haiti are never far from his thoughts, as they form the foundation of everything he’s built. He didn’t take for granted the opportunity he was given to attend Saint-Louis de Gonzague, arguably one of the most prestigious high schools on the island. This placed him in the highly competitive process of applying and ultimately being accepted to the only medical school in Haiti at the time, the State Faculty School of Pharmacy and Medicine. Dr. Romeus became the first and only doctor in his family and fulfilled his childhood dream. Medicine was always his first love. “I was given the opportunity to go to medical school almost for free,” shared Dr. Romeus. “Due to everything my

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country invested in me, I must always give back. That’s how I repay my debt – by constantly working in my community both here and back home.” Upon his graduation from medical school, Dr. Romeus was required to commit one year to social services in Haiti. He did so by returning to his hometown of CampPerrin. He worked for many different government and private institutions and eventually opened a clinic there, as he saw a real need for his services. “That’s when I really started to work as a doctor and make an impact on people’s lives,” says Dr. Romeus. “They say you are never welcomed in your own town, but that was never the case for me. It was one of the best times in my life. I still go back whenever I get the chance and I plan to retire there. That is my dream.”

INTERVIEW In the early 2000s, Dr. Romeus made a family decision to move to the United States. Here in Miami, he continued his journey as a physician by meeting all the U.S. requirements, including a three-year residency (in internal medicine) in Puerto Rico. Fluent in Kreyol, French, English, and Spanish, Dr. Romeus returned to Mimi knowing that he would thrive in this multicultural

as is an Access Center, where assistance is given for filling out social service and government paperwork at no additional charge. “The way the system is designed, everything runs through the primary care physician,” explains Dr. Romeus. Thus, as an internal medicine physician delivering primary care, doctors like him are vital to the community. Along with two nurse practitioners, Dr. Romeus is committed to treating every Dr. Romeus sees his clinic as a gift to the patient equally and respectfully and community. The facility is 100% Haitian-staffed. ensuring everyone can make informed decisions about their health. city, but most importantly, be of service to his Haitian When he’s not seeing patients,Dr Romeus continues community. to educate his community through his program “priorite After being a part of a medical group for two years, sante,”which airs weekly on different local radio stations Dr. Romeus made a business decision to go into private and Ayiti TV.Last but not least, Dr. Romeus has served practice. “I believe that a part of the definition of a on the executive boards of several non-for-profit organizations. He is a philanthropist and the founder doctor is to be your own boss,” he explains. This was of Positive Impact Alliance, a platform whose primary also an opportunity to serve and impact the Haitian mission is to assist in vocational schools in rural Haiti to community in a more meaningful way. From 2012 help rebuild a skilled workforce. to 2015, he, along with a partner, operated Baypoint Medical Center. For the past five years, Preferred Family Care has been delivering personalized service in North Miami Beach. CONTACT INFORMATION: He wants everyone to feel at home and establish a Preferred Family Care, Medicare, Senior Care bond with their healthcare providers, as they are there 16853 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 101 to address their medical needs and more. Patients can expect to receive most services ¬– such as onsite North Miami Beach, FL 33162 complete physical and bloodwork – under one roof. 305.548.8530 Most specialists are also in the same building. Massage www. pfcareinc.com therapy and weight loss management are offered onsite,

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“THE FOOT IS ATTACHED TO THE BODY”

Dr. Jim Francois Explains Why His Podiatry Practice Sees Every Patient as a Whole Person Written by Shelly-Ann M. Parkinson + Photos by Johny Luc

edicine was always a part of the plan for Dr. Jim Francois. He was born in Cap-Haitien, Haiti, and was set to begin medical school there, where he planned to become an OBGYN just before migrating to the United States in 1991. Unable to afford medical

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school in the United States, a young Jim Francois devised a very specific plan to go to Florida A & M University for his undergraduate studies where he studied physical therapy and he would practice for just five years to earn enough money for medical school.

INTERVIEW office is equipped with a surgical/wound care room for basic surgical procedures. Even though he no longer practices physical therapy, the knowledge he has comes in handy with educating his patients and with his own multidimensional approach to care. Dr. Francois has a second practice in Port Charlotte, Charlotte County Foot and Ankle Clinics which include services to assisted and independent living facility residents. Most insurances are accepted as well as cash on a sliding scale. Wherever he sees his patients, Dr. Francois always wants them to feel like they are respected and cared for. He knows that even though he sees patients of all nationalities and speaks several languages, Haitian patients always feel at home because they can express themselves freely in Kreyol.“This is a caring place,” said Dr. Francois, “We treat our patients like they are family. It is the way it is. That’s how Haitians are. We treat people with respect. They can come and talk about other issues besides podiatry care. We see the whole person, not just the foot. Afterall, the foot is attached According to Dr. Francois, “Many times people only to the body.” Dr. Francois explained that this can be very serious especially for people who come to the doctor when something is wrong. It is do not have a primary care physician or those important for them, especially diabetics, to know that with a primary care physician who may not they can see the doctor before something goes wrong speak their language and things get lost in as they can lose a toe, a foot, or a leg for the simplest nuances and translation. Dr. Francois shared that sometimes the issue that could have been avoided sooner.” podiatrist is the first doctor to realize that there might be a serious medical condition and that the However, nearing the end of his five years, he realized patient may not have seen their primary care physician in a that with a pregnant wife, he needed to consider a medical while. “If you educate people about their health, they will do school in South Florida. “Working as a physical therapist, better,” he said, “Even if you have been living with an issue all I was dealing with patients with knee injuries and stroke your life, doesn’t mean it has to remain that way.” issues, so my mindset changed. I was now thinking of going With two busy practices on opposite coasts of Florida, it into orthopedics or becoming a neurologist,” reflected Dr. can be difficult to find balance with everything else in one’s Francois.At this time, he was working at Hialeah Hospital life. But Dr. Francois can count on family to remind him of and a chance conversation with some podiatry students on what is truly important. He still finds time to give back to rotation, introduced him to podiatry. He then applied to the communities in need as he has been participating in missions podiatry program at Barry University and was accepted two to Haiti and to Jamaica since 2002 for different organizations weeks prior to the beginning of the semester. including the Haitian American Nurses Association (HANA) He excelled in the program. “Even as a student, I enjoyed as well as local community events. Dr. Francois is also always teaching my classmates,” expressed Dr. Francois. That willing to help medical students or residents as a mentor or passion for podiatry and medicine continued into his career. in any way he can. His best advice for anyone wanting to After graduation, he continued as an adjunct professor at follow in his career path is to, “Do it for the right reason. Try Barry University, teaching physical medicine from 2005 to to learn as much as you can. If you don’t, you won’t evolve, 2018. He also became an attending physician at North Shore and become the best you can be. Enjoy what you can do; and Jackson Hospitals from 2008 where he also teaches otherwise, you will be miserable, create a toxic working resident physicians. Dr. Francois is past Chair of Podiatry at environment, and your patient won’t be happy. North Shore Hospital and the former Vice-Chair of Podiatry at Jackson Hospital. Straight out of residency, Dr. Francois opened his private CONTACT INFORMATION: practice which does everything in podiatry. As a foot and Jim Francois, DPM, PT, PA ankle surgeon, Dr. Francois can perform simple to the most intricate and complex surgeries from below the knee 150 NW 168th Street, Suite 303, down. He sees a mix of patients, from those requiring North Miami Beach, FL 33169-6037 diabetic footcare, wound care, sports injuries, flat feet, 786-657-2757 fungus, bunions, heel pain, athletes-foot, plantar fasciitis, www.jimfrancoisdpm.com and pediatrics including newborns. His North Miami Beach

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LOSE WEIGHT

Romane Joseph, MD General/Robotic Surgeon

JOSEPH SURGERY WIGHT LOSS MANAGEMENT WITH THE GASTRIC BALLOON PROGRAM IS A GOOD OPTION FOR YOU: • There is NO surgery involved: Simple, Easy, and Effective • The BALLOON is placed temporarily and then removed • No Need for Incisions, Stitches, or Scars. • A deflated balloon is inserted into your stomach, and it is filled to the size of a grapefruit. The entire process usually takes 15-20 minutes, and most people go home hours later. • The gastric BALLOON procedure is less costly than a surgical option • Some patients that are not eligible for surgery may be suitable for the gastric BALLOON procedure • The gastric BALLOON produces permanent weight loss results: lose 30-60 lbs. • On average, the gastric BALLOON for weight loss allows patients to lose 3.1 times the weight they would through diet and exercise practices alone.

GASTRIC BALLOON Joseph Surgery Gastric Balloon works, because it gets to the root of the problem - Compared to other costly weight loss options, Joseph Surgery Weight Loss Management helps you learn to keep the weight off.

e will help you RETRAIN your appetite, adopt new nutritional habits, and establish a reasonable exercise routine that will be essential to your long-term success. The JS Gastric BALLOON program is used to minimize the risks of surgical complications associated with obesity. Joseph Surgery Gastric Balloon Program helps healthier eating habits become second nature.

50 Haiti Open | People Culture Tourism

You will learn to listen to your body and feel when your stomach is full. The weight loss will start immediately, and habit building continues for years.

NOT PERMANENT

After the first six months of the weight loss program the stomach BALLOON is carefully removed, and the aftercare program continues

LOSE WEIGHT CHANGING YOUR HABITS

For the next six months the BALLOON is inside your stomach, reducing the amount you can eat, and re-training your brain to better anticipate when your stomach is getting full.

It’s during this time that open and constant communication with your support team is crucial to maximizing the benefits of JOSEPH SURGERY Weight Loss Management. This means regular face-to-face sessions with your treatment team, dietician, fitness trainer, psychologist, and Surgeons. During these first six months, with the stomach BALLOON and support team working in tandem, patients see the most drastic results - Losing 30 to 50 pounds (sometimes even more). This comprehensive weight loss program DOES NOT FOCUS ON

SUCCESS RATES OF WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS ARE HIGHER WITH THE HELP OF JOSEPH SURGERY AND CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN KEEPING YOUR WEIGHT OFF.

SURGERY BUT empowers you to change your relationship with food. It is a unique weight management program personalized to help you achieve and maintain your weight loss goals.

CONFIDENCE TO CHANGE… JOSEPH SURGERY

Change is one of the hardest things we can do, especially when it comes to something as emotional and tempting as food. One of the greatest tools our Specialists find they provide patients, is the confidence that they can change… At Joseph Surgery, we will be with you in this Journey.

GET OUR PERSONALIZED SUPPORT TO HELP YOU SUCCEED.

Our team of experts focus not on surgery but encourage and support behavioral change to help patients realign their relationship with food and enjoy a healthier lifestyle and long-lasting weight loss results. Your connection with your team is always available one phone call

(L) Romane Joseph, MD General/Robotic Surgeon, (M) David Phillibert, MD General/Bariatric Surgeron, (R) Onyeka Nwokocha, MD General/Bariatric Surgeron

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LOSE WEIGHT

(L) Onyeka Nwokocha, MD General/Bariatric Surgeron, (M) Romane Joseph, MD General/Robotic Surgeon, (R) David Phillibert, MD General/Bariatric Surgeron

away. This easy accessibility makes JOSEPH SURGERY one of the strongest and best weight loss resources you have available to you to achieve your goals.

YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR PRIORITY.

GET THE BOOST YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR and LOOSE THE WEIGHT: JOSEPH SURGERY GASTRIC BALLOON PROGRAM

THE NAME YOU KNOW THE SURGEONS YOU TRUST CONTACT INFORMATION: DADE: 9415 NE 6th Ave, Miami, FL 33138 BROWARD: 4900 W Oakland Park Blvd, Ste 202, Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313 (786) 401-6455 www.JosephSurgery.com

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COVID

KOWONAVIRIS AN AYITI PANDAN ANE 2021 AN Pa Ford Pierre

epi le kowonaviris la rive an Ayiti (19 mas 2020), kantite moun ki enfekte yo kontinye ap ogmante san rete. Vrèmanvre, dapre done ki soti sou sit entènèt coronahaiti.org, sou plis pase 138,000 tès ki fèt, Ministè Sante Piblik ak Popilasyon an (MSPP) jwenn plis pase 25,000 ka pozitif, pou yon total de 350 lanmò ak apeprè 4400 ki retabli. Dapre dènye estatistik yo, plis pase 3,300 moun vivan deklare ofisyèlman pozitif. Depatman Lwès la domine klasman yo ak anviwon 16,300 enfekte, plis pase 15,100 retabli ak 350 lanmò. Tandiske ke depatman Nip lan se youn nan estatistik ki pi ba yo, 370 enfekte ak 78 rekiperasyon.

VAKSINASYON YO

An jiyè 2021, Ayiti te resevwa nan men peyi Etazini yon premye lo 500,000 dòz vaksen kont kowonaviris. Lo vaksen sa a ki soti nan laboratwa MODERNA, te kapab sèlman vaksinen

250,000 moun ak de dòz pou yo chak. Men, dapre done ki soti nan Our World in Data, se sèlman 66,888 Ayisyen sou 11 milyon moun ki te pran 2 dòz vaksen lòt yo te sèlman resevwa yon premye dòz. Men, kèk mwa apre, akoz de enkonpetans otorite yo pou vaksinen popilasyon an, yo te deside echanje dòz li yo ak lòt peyi.

DIGICEL MANDE TRAVAYÈ YO PRAN VAKSEN AN

Depi prezans pandemi an Ayiti, Digicel montre tèt li responsab nan

egzije aplikasyon strik jès baryè yo ak lòt prekosyon ki rekòmande pou pwoteje anplwaye li yo, kliyan yo, patnè l yo ak tout moun ki frekante lokal li yo. Alòske vaksinasyon se youn nan solisyon efikas ki ka elimine pwopagasyon viris la epi limite domaj yo dapre etid syantifik yo, Digicel te mande nan fen mwa oktòb 2021an yon kat vaksen oswa yon tès negatif chak semèn a tout anplwaye li yo. Konpayi telefòn lan pran mezi sa yo pou eseye ede kwape viris sila. Depi 20 septanm 2021, yo pale de yon katriyèm vag viris l’an Ayiti ak 3,717 ka konfime epi 128 lanmò. Men, kontrèman ak peyi tankou Etazini, Itali oswa Brezil, kowonaviris la pa t grav an Ayiti. Sèlman yon ti pòsyon nan popilasyon an enfekte ak viris la malgre neglijans nan aplikasyon jès baryè yo.

An jiyè 2021, Ayiti te resevwa nan men peyi Etazini yon premye lo 500,000 dòz vaksen kont kowonaviris… se sèlman 66,888 Ayisyen sou 11 milyon moun ki te pran 2 dòz vaksen lòt yo te sèlman resevwa yon premye dòz.

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MOUN KI VAKSINEN

MOUN KI PA VAKSINEN

SE CHWA PA W. PRAN VAKSEN AN. MIAMIDADE.GOV/VAKSEN

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TRANBLEMANTÈ AN AYITI 14 DAWOUT 2021 Pa Ford Pierre

56 Haiti Open | People Culture Tourism

LES CAYES EARTHQUAKE Plis pase 2,200 mounmouriakanviwon 12,000 bleseteanrejistreaprètranblemantè a, daprèestatistik nan DireksyonJeneralPwoteksyon Sivil la (DGPC). Ak 52,953 kay detwiakplispase 77,000 lòtdomaje...

11 lane apretranblemanntèterib ki tetouyeplispase 300,000 mounyo, Ayiti tesekwe yon lòtfwaankòanesa a pa yon tranblemanntèvyolan ki tefeanpildegajou ki tedawout la. Men fwasa a, sa pa konsène tout repiblik la nèt. Vrèmanvre, nan dat 14 dawout 2021 an, yon tranblemanntèak yon mayitid 7.2 ki tekoze pa fay sismik “Enriquillo-Plantain garden” tedevasteGransid la net (Sid, Grandansak Nip), e telakòzanpilgwopèt.

Several men work to rescue the body of a girl buried in the rubble of a house in the aftermath of an earthquake in Les Cayes, Haiti, August 14, 2021 - Photo by Duples Plymouth for AP

ANPILDEGAIMENAKMATERYÈL

Plis pase 2,200 mounmouriakanviwon 12,000bleseteanrejistreaprètranblemantè a, daprèestatistik nan DireksyonJeneralPwoteksyon Sivil la (DGPC). Ak 52,953 kay detwiakplispase 77,000 lòtdomaje, tranblemanntèsa a telakòzanpildega nan enfrastriktiesansyèlyo: 25 etablismansante, 127 lekòlak 60 batimanrelijyetedetwi, sanbliyeplizyèwoutakpon, sa ki tekoupeaksè a plizyezòn nan sidwès la. Pami viktimyonou ka site ansyensenatè Sid la, ansyendepite Okay e ansyenmajistravil la, Gabriel Fortuné, ki mouri anba debriotèl li “Le Manguier”.

KONSEKANS KI PI GRAVTOUJOU

Dapre yon rapò ki tepibliye pa Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), omwen 650,000 mountebezwenasistansimanitèapretranblemanntè a. DTM te rive idantifye 65 pwenrasanblemanakanviwon 26,245 moun ki deplase nan kotesayo. Kèkjouapretranblemantè a, GranSid la te frape pa tanpèt Grace, ki tepwolonjeeprèvabitanyo. Malgresa, yo pa te gen okennchwake rete tranpeakdezolasyonnan nan yon lari ki menase pa inondasyon.

DON POUEDEVIKTIM YO

Nan tout mondlan, anpilpeyiakòganizasyon te trèreflechianpil sou ka Ayiti a. Ayiti te resevwa don kisoti nan tout kwenki sou te a. Daprèreziltaevalyasyonpèt PDNA te fè a, yo pralbezwenprèske 2 milya dola oswa 157 milyagoud pou rekonstwi Gran Sid la. Yon lòtkote, Bank Mondyalteanonse yon don 190 milyondolapouede Ayiti. Gouvènman an pralòganize yon konferansentènasyonal an janvye 2022 pourasanble yon pati nan fonsayo. Sepandan, akoz plan rekonstriksyonalontèmkegouvènman an tabli an, kominoteGransid la dwejwenn yon fasonpou l sòti anba gwokrizsa a.

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People place a portrait of late Haitian President Jovenel Moise at a memorial outside the Presidential Palace, a week after his assassination, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti July 14, 2021 - Ricardo Arduengo for Reuters

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ASASINAPREZIDAN JOVENEL MOISE LA Pa Ford Pierre

Nan kòmansmanlannwit 7 jiyè 2021 an, yotetouyePrezidan Jovenel Moïse lakay li (ki sitiye nan Petyonvil) nan katyePòtoprens. Lanmòchèfleta a rive nan zòn 1è nan matenlè yon gwoup 28 kòmandomèsenèKolonbyen, ki gen ladantwapolisyeayisyen, atakelakay li. Madanm li, Martine Moïse, teblesegravmanpa bal. Tout bagaytefètsantwòpkonplikasyonmalgreprezans 23 gad nan rezidanslan. Nan atiksa a, noupral mete aksan sou kèkstatistik ki anrejitrekonsenantrajedisa a.

KÈKEKSPLIKASYON SOU KÒZASASINAA

AsasinaPrezidan Jovenel Moïse la òganizepourezonpolitik, e poufè yon “Hold-up”. Se sarapòankèt RNDDH la afime, e ki konfime pa entèvyoukechèntelevizyonKolonbyenCaracoltefèak kat mèsenèKolonbyen : Alman Rivera Garcia (ansyenkòmandan), Jheyner Carmona Florez (ansyensoulyetnan), Angel Yarce Sierra (ansyen. -sjan) ak Naiser Franco Castaneda. “Hold-up” sakonsènerekiperasyonplizyèmilyondola ki tekache nan chanmPrezidan Jovenel Moïse la.

Daprè New York Times, Ayiti parètkòm yon gwopwentranspòpoudwòg ki pralOzetazini. Sa kimennenfoslòd yo kwèkeasasinaPrezidanJovenel Moïse an lyeakzafè sa a..

ARESTAYSONKÈKSISPÈ

Sistèmjistisayisyen an idantifyeplizyèsispèk nan kadankètyo tap mennen an. Pa egzanp: • Pastè Christian Emmanuel Sanon se youn nan premyemounyote arete e mete nan prizon. • Yote arete chèf gad prezidansyèl la, Dimitri Herard, keyosispèk ki te bay manmgwoupkomandoyozamakminisyonpoureyalizevyezaksa a. • Yote mete touKowòdonatèsekiritepalènasyonal la, Jean Laguel Civil anba kontwòljidisyè. • Plizyeavirechèchtelansekontansyensenatè John Joël Joseph, avoka Joseph Félix Badio akansyenmajistratribinalkasasyonWindelle Coq-Thélot. • Yotepibliye yon avirechechtoukontbiznismanayisyen an, Rodolphe Jaar, paske li teenplike nan krimsa a. • Biznisman Samir Handal, yon lòtsispèk, te arete nan peyi Tiki pa lapolis Tik ansanmakotoriteayisyenyo nan dat 15 novanm 2021.

Otoriteyote arete plizyèlòtsispèkapregwokrimsa a ki te choke lemonnantye. Men jiskaprezanankètyo ap kontinye. Antèmanansyenprezidan an te chante nan vilOkap le 23 jiyè 2021, nan rezidansfanmi li. Kilèansyenprezidan an ap resijwennjistis li?

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Protesters gathered near the US Citizenship and Immigration Services building Miami Open on Sept 22, 2021, to denounce expulsion of Haitian | People 60 inHaiti Culturethe Tourism refugees from Del Rio, Texas Joe Raedle for Getty Images

TEXAS BORDER

SEPTEMBER 2021:

HAITIAN MIGRANTS AT THE TEXAS BORDER By Alex Popa

aitians have endured massive political and social turmoil over the last 11 years. Natural disasters, gang violence, outbreaks of COVID-19 and cholera, and the assassination of president Jovenel Moïse are just some of the reasons why thousands of Haitians decided to immigrate to the United States this year. But getting into the US isn’t easy, as per official immigration guidelines.

WHAT HAPPENED AT THE TEXAS BORDER?

In September 2021, approximately 15,000 migrants arrived in Del Rio, Texas, constructing a makeshift camp under a bridge. Of those 15,000 migrants, 95% were Haitians looking for asylum and an escape from the confines of a nearautocratic regime in Haiti. From there, chaos ensued. The migrants were seen crossing the river from Texas to the US and confronted by mounted US Border Patrol personnel. Controversial images appeared in the media allegedly showing mounted Border Patrols using horse reins as whips or lassos to attack the migrants. Some Border Patrols were heard swearing at Haitian migrants trying to pass illegally into the US. Many US news outlets – including NBC News, Time, BBC, The New York Times, and the Texas Tribune – covered the event under headlines such as “Images of Border Patrol’s Treatment of Haitian Migrants

and organizations showed their indignance on social media. Even President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris said that what happened was horrible and an indignity to the migrants. They swore to investigate the event and find justice for the good people of Haiti. On the other hand, Chief Raul L. Ortiz of the Border Patrol said during a news conference in Del

One Haitian migrant said "We suffered a lot to get here," referring to the risky journey from South America to Del Rio. Criminals often wait for migrants to pass through the Darién Gap, a stretch of jungle between Colombia and Panama. Prompted Outrage” (NY Times) and “Biden Reacts in Horror to Video of Border Agents,” (Bloomberg) and “Many Haitian migrants camped in Texas border town being released in the US” (NBC News). Alejandro Mayorkas, the United States Secretary of Homeland Security, says about 2,000 Haitian migrants were deported back to Haiti on 17 flights. Another 5,000 were permitted to wait for processing, and about 8,000 had to return to Mexico. A few thousand migrants were released inside the US to wait for immigration hearings, with approximately 2,000 reaching Houston.

HOW DID PEOPLE RESPOND?

When images showing the Border Patrol’s abuse of migrants appeared in the media, countless individuals

Rio that the mounted unit was there to ensure security, ensure the migrants were not in distress and gather intelligence about smuggling operations. “Operating in a riverine environment, on horseback, is a difficult situation,” he told the NY Times, referring to the agents using reins to control the horses in the difficult terrain so they would not harm the migrants by accident. He further claimed that the controversial image of the Border Patrol agent using his reins like a lasso or whip was most likely related to this challenging terrain. But he also said he would launch an investigation to check whether Border Patrol units displayed unacceptable behavior during the event at the Texas Border. We look forward to the results of the investigation.

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Haitian Migrants wade across the Rio Grande from Del Rio, Texas, to Ciudad Acuña, Mexico, Sunday, Sept. 19, 2021 - Felix Marquez for AP

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TEXAS BORDER

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Davidson Petit-Frère, Photographed at the Norwood Club Denzel Golatt

Fashion Designer of the Year:

DAVIDSON PETIT-FRÈRE HUMILITY, DEDICATION, AND SERENDIPITY MADE DAVIDSON PETIT-FRÈRE A FORCE IN FASHION 64 Haiti Open | People Culture Tourism

By Alex Popa

FASHION

his year brought major changes in the world of fashion. Davidson Petit-Frère, the CEO of house FRÈRE, entered a collaboration with Oliver Peoples to release two exclusive eyewear styles. The new designs had PetitFrère and supermodel Jasmine Tookes showcasing the two eyewear additions at the iconic Stahl House.

WHO IS DAVIDSON PETITFRÈRE?

The CEO, designer, and creative director of fashion house FRÈRE started as the son of two Haitian immigrants to America. He was born in Brooklyn, and at first, nothing seemed to foreshadow the illustrious future he would have. At 17, he was approached by a stranger who gave him a business card and called him for an interview for a job in luxury real estate. Over the years, the young Davidson started to admire the welldressed stars he saw on magazine covers. At the behest of one of his coworkers, he started looking into custom suits – and discovered a new passion. When closing real estate deals, his clients would often ask where he got his suits from. That’s when he realized he had a knack for making clothes, not just wearing them. In 2012, he fully committed to fashion by launching a small brand and trying to find a partner and investor. Today, nine years later, Petit-Frère is an independent designer with his own fashion house and a curator for Courvoisier, the most-awarded cognac house in the world. Petit-Frère claims he has always stayed true to his convictions. He delivers on his promises and adheres to his own code of conduct. He encourages men to wear whatever they love, be it in black, yellow, purple, or red. Originality and consistency lead to great men’s wear!

FRÈRE X OIIVER PEOPLES

Humility, dedication, and powerful self-awareness have led PetitFrère to shape his personal form of creativity. In the world of fashion, house FRÈRE sets the fashion tone for the societal icons including Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Beyoncé, and others.

Petit-Frère says dreamed of launching his own brand of eyewear styled with the FRÈRE logo. A partnership with Oliver Peoples was only natural, given the eyewear company’s long-standing heritage as a luxury brand. Still, the Haitian fashion designer’s love for vivid colors had to be emphasized even in

Oliver Peoples is an American luxury eyewear brand that focuses on exceptional craftsmanship, stylish polish, and elevated design. The partnership between FRÈRE and Oliver Peoples was long foreseen, according to Giampiero Tagliaferri, Oliver Peoples Creative Director. He claims FRÈRE’s bold use of color and fresh fashion sense was a perfect match with Oliver People’s iconic heritage.

eyewear, which is evident in the two exclusive styles. Based on the interaction between the two companies, there are bound to be more joint projects in the future. Petit-Frère has grown to become one of the most influential voices in the world of men’s fashion and, as of now, eyewear. We’ll wait and see what the future holds for him!

Humility, dedication, and powerful self-awareness have led Davidson Petit-Frère to shape his personal form of creativity.

Photo Credit

@frere

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White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks during a press briefing at Haiti Wednesday, Open | People 66 House, Culture Tourism the White May 26, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo Evan Vucci)

PRESS

Press Person of the Year:

KARINE JEAN-PIERRE Is The 1st Black Woman In Decades To Brief White House Press By AYESHA RASCOE for npr

Karine Jean-Pierre with Vice-President Kamala Harris, Miikka Skaffari for Getty Images at MOVEON

hen Karine Jean-Pierre stepped behind the lectern to take reporters’ questions in the briefing room Wednesday, she was the first Black woman to speak for the White House in that capacity in three decades. Jean-Pierre, the principal deputy press secretary for the Biden White House, kicked off the day’s briefing with news about another woman making history: Kristen Clarke. She announced that the Senate confirmed Clarke on Tuesday as the first woman and first woman of color to lead the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.

for the progressive group MoveOn. org before she joined Biden’s presidential campaign. She also made history as the first openly gay woman in her role. It has been a long time since the last Black woman in Jean-Pierre’s position made her debut in the briefing room. It was 1991, and the woman was Judy Smith. Hairstyles have changed. The internet is much faster, and you can get it on smartphones, which didn’t even exist then. To put it in perspective, Smith was deputy press secretary for thenPresident George H.W. Bush — the first Bush president. Enough time passed that Smith was the inspiration for the

It’s a real honor just to be standing here today,” JeanPierre said. “I appreciate the historic nature, I really do. But I believe being behind this podium, being in this room, being in this building, is not about one person. It’s about what we do on behalf of the American people.” Just a few questions into the briefing, Jean-Pierre was asked about how she felt about her own historic turn. Jean-Pierre is a longtime Democratic political hand who was the top public affairs staffer

character of Olivia Pope on ABC’s hit show Scandal, which ran for seven seasons and ended in 2018. And in all that time, there has not been another Black woman to take the lectern as White House spokeswoman — until now.

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BY ANNIE LEIBOVITZ for VOGUE

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SPORTSWOMAN

Sports Illustrated Naomi Osaka, by Yu Tsai in Malibu, California

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EDUCATION

Person in Education of the Year:

REGINALD DESROCHES

RICE UNIVERSITY NAMED ITS FIRST BLACK AND FOREIGN-BORN PRESIDENT IN THE SCHOOL’S HISTORY He’ll be the first immigrant, the first Black man and first engineer to become Rice’s president. By JEN RICE for Houston Public Media Rice University board of trustees has selected its first Black and foreign-born president in the school’s history. Reginald DesRoches has been at the university for five years, first as dean of engineering and then as provost. He’ll be the first

on July 1, 2022. He’s replacing Rice’s current president, David Leebron, who announced he was stepping down from the position in May. Earlier this year, the university revealed plans to expand its student body by 20% over the next five years. The latest demographic numbers show white professors made up 76% of the faculty and white students made up 43% of the student body at Rice. University officials said a rise in enrollment would «continue developing a more diverse and dynamic environment on campus.» Additionally, students of color have pushed the school to remove a statue of founder William Marsh Rice, who owned at least 15 slaves. DesRoches said research from the university’s task force on slavery, segregation and racial injustice demonstrates the school›s commitment to addressing that criticism. “We need to continue to tell the truth about the history of the university,” DesRoches said. “The task force report begins to do that and we need to continue to share that with the community.”

My background as a Haitian immigrant raised in a working-class family in Queens, by parents who didn’t go to college but instilled the value of education in all four of their children, compels me to commit to being excellent in everything that I do, DesRoches said. immigrant, the first Black man, and the first engineer to become Rice’s president. Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, DesRoches was raised in New York and earned three degrees at the University of California, Berkeley. DesRoches will officially take over as the school’s eighth president

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A Haitian-American, Desroches immigrated to the U.S. with his family at age five, an experience that remains a “foundational piece” of his story with his parents’ sacrifices continuing to serve as a source of inspiration.

NEW YORK - DEC 08, 2019 - Yvette Desroches (L) CFO, WarnerMedia Pascal

Open | People 72 Haiti Culture Desroches attend CNN Heroes - Photo byTourism Kevin Mazur - Getty Images

CAREER ACHIEVEMENT

T&T’s (T) new CFO, Pascal Desroches, says his vision of success is leaving the telecommunications and media giant “in better stead than where we found it.” “Ultimately, we are stewards. We inherited a great company, and we need to leave a better company for the next generation,” Desroches told Yahoo Finance in a wide-ranging conversation. Desroches’ vision of a great company is leaving AT&T the “best communication and entertainment company in the world” that is “known for innovation” as well as “ethical behavior” and is “operated with integrity.” “That’s the goal, and we’re committed to it,” the CFO added. Desroches, who officially took the top finance job on April 1, is one of Yahoo Finance’s The Next: 21 to watch in 2021 series, 21 people we believe will leave an indelible mark this year. Desroches, 56, is also among a small number of high-ranking Black executives in corporate America, a statistic he hopes to change. “When my parents immigrated here — they were in their late 30s, didn’t know the language, had to learn the language, secure jobs, and they did it while educating four young children.” His mother would often work double shifts as a nurse, while his father often had more than one job to help supplement income, including to send their children to college. After graduating from public school in Queens, Desroches went on to earn his undergraduate degree from St. John’s University debt-free and then received his MBA from Columbia University. “[When] I look back at their experience, and what they’ve done, no matter what I achieved, it will pale in comparison to the courage and resolve they had in coming to this country at a time of great

Career Achievement of the Year:

PASCAL DESROCHES

AT&T CFO: ‘MY STORY IS ONLY POSSIBLE IN THIS COUNTRY’ JULIA LA ROCHE For Yahoo uncertainty for them, personally. They made the sacrifice in order to put us in a better position. So I often say, ‘there’s no such thing as a bad day,’ whenever I think about that.” Desroches began his career at KPMG, rising the ranks to become a partner. He also did a stint with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as part of a fellowship program working with the agency’s chief accountant. While with the SEC, he met the controller at Time Warner, who eventually hired him in 2001. Desroches has held various key roles, including global controller at Time Warner, CFO of Turner Broadcasting,

and CFO of WarnerMedia. In November 2020, Desroches was selected to succeed John Stephens as CFO effective April 1, 2021. “I don’t know that any other country, you’d have somebody who came to this country, at a young age from somewhere else, and elevates to a position like this. And there are stories like that. And what I would tell somebody coming up is, ‘If you believe in yourself, and you have resolve, and you come in every day, and try to get better, there are enormous possibilities, and especially in this country,’” Desroches added.

NEW YORK - OCT 25 - Pascal Desroches, CFO of ATT, attends the opening of the NYSE. Photo by Spencer Platt - Getty Images

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Julie Jules Poses for her EMMY Win, Photo by Aaron Lacy

AWARD

JULIE JULES

HAITIAN-AMERICAN CELEBRITY MAKEUP ARTIST JULIE JULES WINS 2021 DAYTIME EMMY AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING MAKEUP By Alex Popa

ulie Jules is a Haitian-born makeup artist who recently won an Emmy for her work. Over the years, she’s beena part of the makeup department of TV shows including The Real, Loyalty, Savage X Fenty Shows Vol. 2, and more. Her Emmy success was the culmination of many years of hard work, sacrifice, and persistence where others might have faltered.

HOW DID IT ALL START?

In an interview with Shoutout LA, Julie said she initially pursued a corporatist job after finishing college with a Bachelor’s degree. After a while, she felt she wasn’t contributing much to society or harnessing her full potential. She wanted something more, a riskier yet infinitely more rewarding career tied to creativity. The transition from employee to self-employed artist wasn’t easy. Hard work, strategy, consistency, and ambition were all indispensable traits, and she had them all. She slowly built a clientele through odd jobs and by posting on Craigslist. Eventually, she did audience work for the show The Real, which is where she received inspiration. She wasn’t remarkable in the beginning. What set her apart was her resilience and resourcefulness to pursue her dream. After she was fired from her job, she had to scramble to find revenue while pursuing her dream.

HOW DID SHE SUCCEED?

While she received help along the way, Julie succeeded through sheer willpower, ambition, and resourcefulness. She had a dream and a talent to back it up, and while hers wasn’t an easy journey, she pushed through and got to where she wanted. The CEO of Heads Music, Madeline Nelson, became one of her mentors and closest friends during her debut as a make-up artist. The Emmy winner also says her mother was a huge supporter of her make-up career. Even though Julie had stepped away from the relative safety of corporatism, her mother believed in her abilities and always stood by her side. Her mother’s stories of when she was growing up

Garcelle Beauvais, a co-host of the daytime talk show The Real, mentored Julie on basics of onset make-up artistry. in Haiti and improvising her makeup tools inspired Julie and steeled her will for things to come. What’s Next for Julie Jules? Judging by her track record, Julie is headed for success and glory – and that’s exactly what we expect from her. It’s refreshing to see that she remembers her Haitian roots as embodied in her mother’s stories. That sense of community built her character and willpower for success and inspires her to want more in life. She’s going far, and we’ll be here to talk about her future achievements in the world of make-up!

Photo credit @jjulesbeauty

Career Award of the Year:

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Bedjine x K-Dilak - Photo by Teddy Alvarez

BREAKOUT DUO

BEDJINEAK N K-DILAK SE NOUVO SANSASYON NAN HMI LA Pa Ford Pierre

an kòmansman, san anpilpiblisite, li te fon ti difisil pou Bedjineak K-Dilak. A poutan nan 2019 la, pè a te pwopozetit “Fo pwomès”. Yontittrèbèlki pale de enpèfeksyon nan relasyonamoure, kote relasyon an dezekiliblèpwomès yo pakenbe. Tente akDancehall, se son Afro a ki domine titmizikla. Chan te gen ti siksè li, san okenn garanti popilariteke tout atiskilanse nan mondmizikkonnesperejwennlan. Pou pè a finalmangensiksè y’apchache a, yo praloblijeretetann “Pouki n te marye” (yon chan Kompa ki pale sou seksyalite nan koupkimarye) kilage 4 Desanm 2020. An menmkou, pandanfoulmounaprasanble pou tande yo nan konsè, atansyonpwomotè yo kanpe sou pè a. Pè a te fèfanatik yo chante epireve. Ak plis ke 20 milyonoditris sou platfòmdifizyonkienkli 16 milyonmounki gade li sou YouTube, pè a apkontinyeakgwoavanti yo a. Sis mwaapre sa, pè a lageyonlòt chante hit “Engra”. Yon chante ki pale sou pwoblèmki rive pami koup. Espesyalman sou ki jan enfidelitedanjere nan relasyon amoure jodi a. Chante AfroPop la kapteatansyonpiblik la epikontribye nan eksplozyonpèmizikalla. Ak pliske 8 milyonmoun ki gade sou Youtube, pè a byenkonfimeenpakyo gen sou mizikAyisyen pandan ane 2021 an. Kounye a, pèsa ki preskepa’t gen zye sou yo nan kòmansman, se yo ki vinnakozplissansasyon nan HMI la.

Bedjine x K-Dilak - Photo by Teddy Alvarez

Photo Credit K-Dilak - Twitter

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Angie Bell (L), Tico Armand (R), Photo by Maybeline Dugué Despagne @Maybelinephotography

CHILDREN BOOK

CHILDREN BOOK OF THE YEAR:

THE ADVENTURES OF YAYA co-authored by

Angie Bell and Tico Armand, and Illustrated by Jerry Boursiquot By Alex Popa

he Adventures of Yaya is a Haitian-inspired children’s book originally released on December 18, 2020. People started noticing it on social media even before its June 1 pre-order date. By May of that year, over 200 people had preordered it, and countless others have ordered it since then. It’s received the most acclaim in Haitian-American communities!

WHAT IS IT ABOUT?

The Adventures of Yaya follows the titular heroine’s constant rediscovery of her peoples’ history and that of Ayiti (Haiti). The main character is Raya AmetisDayiti, whom her friends and family call Yaya. She's aptly named after King Henry Cristophe's first daughter, Princess Améthyste. She’s not alone in discovering the mysteries of Haiti, either. Her friends, Little Jhonny and Katie, are also there to give her a helping hand. Grandma Pola is an integral character, since her stories about Haiti are how Yaya learns about her country’s past and rich culture. Who Are the Authors? The Adventures of Yaya was coauthored by Angie Bell and Tico Armand. The illustrations are by Jerry Boursiquot, a self-taught illustrator and graphic designer. The two authors are both leaders of

the Haitian community and popular figures who want to empower Haitians and their culture. Angie is a marketing specialist, published author, and public personality. She’s also a staunch activist who has dedicated her attention to various organizations that promote Haitian language, culture, and arts. Tico is an international model and community activist for the empowerment of women. Both have leveraged their Haitian heritage to teach children around the world about their native country and its people. Jerry actively campaigns for the defense of children’s rights with various NGOs and is a freelance illustrator for many newspapers. He’s the co-owner of Artwork. ht, a communication agency that provides illustration, graphic design, branding, and marketing services.

He’s also the mastermind behind the colorful story of Yaya and her friends!

PUBLIC RESPONSE

The Adventures of Yaya wasn’t written specifically for Haitians. But Haitians were first to notice the book when its publication was first announced on June 1st, 2020. Since then, the book has received much attention from Haitian communities in America and elsewhere. Many were glad to know that The Adventures of Yaya is a 12-book series. Soup Joumoulakay Grann Pola is the first title in the series, and Konbit the second. Children have been enjoying the books and are eagerly awaiting the release of the following books in the series. When that happens, we’ll be here to talk about what unfolds next for Yaya and her friends!

The Adventures of Yaya is about friendship, cultural pride, the joys of childhood, and innocence. Yaya makes great discoveries about Haiti and its people and how they got to where they are now. The young heroine is confident and graceful – and most of all, curious – about her next adventures! HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2021 79 «

SAMUEL DAMEUS, BOYO DIRECTOR

Whanda Tima interviews Smitty

Carel Pedre with Gilfriend

Samuel Dameus, BOYO Director

BOYO Premier attendees

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Angie Bell taking Group Selfie

Artist FATIMA in the Crowd

DOCUMENTARY

DOCUMENTARY OF THE YEAR:

BOYO, DIRECTED BY SAMEUL DAMEUS By Alex Popa

n October 1, the BOYO documentary premiered at the AMC Aventura 24 after a year of hard work by its production team. BOYO is an in-depth depiction of Haiti, its culture, history, cuisine, language, people, and everything else you could think of. It’s a 30-day expedition through Haiti, as seen through the eyes of its natives. Why the title BOYO? The executive producer and director, Samuel Dameus, says Boyo is another name for Haiti used by the indigenous people in the past. Other names for the country include Ayiti and Kiskeya. Boyo means “complete land” with mountains, seas, plains, sunny weather, and richness.

WHAT DID BOYO SET OUT TO DO?

According to Dameus, he and his team traveled through all ten departments of Haiti on a 30day expedition. The goal was to experience Haiti intimately and experience its wonders, not only Port-au-Prince and its political turmoil. They rediscovered the true cultural significance of Haiti’s gastronomy, art, language, historical monuments and sites, and indigenous landmarks. The project was divided into three phases: pre-production, where they envisioned the project and gathered a team; production, when they walked the length of Haiti and filmed everything; and postproduction, when the team selected

the best material and transformed it into a 120-minute documentary. Dameus says that making BOYO couldn’t have been accomplished without the perseverance, love, camaraderie, sacrifices, and

Haitians today may have forgotten the true potential that lies in them, having been scarred by years of political and natural chaos. This film should restore their appreciation of the national culture.

Samuel Dameus, the founder of Faces of Haiti and director of BOYO, said the documentary has a sequel in store. He and his team will start working on ZA BOYO, a Haiti Open exclusivity, in 2022. resilience of his team. They believe BOYO should serve as a source of hope, national pride, and education for generations to come.

WHAT WAS THE PUBLIC’S REACTION?

First and foremost, BOYO is a film about hope. It’s a glimmer of light in the dark of natural disasters, social humiliation, and political instability that has consumed Haiti for more than a decade. Its people needed something to reignite their hope and help them relive their childhoods in Haiti. At the premiere, BOYO received plenty of attention and acclaim from the viewers and critics. Dameus says BOYO should be seen as an educational tool for both the current and future generations.

As for future generations, they ought to know their roots and the sum of all decisions that led Haiti to where it is today. The past should be a lesson for future generations about the need to do better. Lastly, BOYO is a way for all the people of the world to appreciate Haiti and its people in all its shapes and forms. What’s Next for BOYO? Dameus, the founder of Faces of Haiti and BOYO’s director, said the documentary has a sequel in store. He and his team will start working on ZA BOYO, a Haiti Open exclusive, in 2022. He further claimed that ZA BOYO will truly take us back to our roots in a brand-new tour-de-force! We’re intrigued by next year’s sequel. When it pops up on our radar, we’ll bring the news to you!

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COVER STORY

PRINSTON & EDWIGE JEAN-GLAUDE

Written by Shelly-Ann King + Photos by Spexphotography

n Friday, November 12, 2021, after a difficult year of setbacks due to a global pandemic, Primary Medical Care Centers celebrated the grand openings of three new clinics. Located in Miramar, Palm Beach, and Pompano, the three new clinics join the Miami-Dade and Lauderdale Lakes community clinics to provide quality healthcare to the people who need it the most. At the helm of Primary Medical Care Centers are its founders, Prinston and Edwige Jean-Glaude. The married couple opened their first Primary Medical Care Clinic in Miami-Dade in 2013. They were inspired to do so after taking their elderly parents for medical visits and being dissatisfied with the care they received. The Primary Medical Care Centers model is to deliver excellent care to every patient and never place profit over patient health. They continue to work hard and are determined to expand the centers to any county or city where there are underserved people. However, as a faith-centered couple, they’re aware that it takes far more than hard work, determination, and discipline to succeed. Prinston and Edwige rely on their ever-present faith and unwavering trust in God, as it is He who makes it all happen. All five community clinics specialize in family medicine.

They accept patients 15 years and older, yet maintain a strong base of geriatric patients. The clinics are housed in modern, state-ofthe-art facilities with on-site labtesting, as well as transportation to and from medical appointments upon request. Patients are served by medical doctors and highly competent and friendly staff who manage non-life-threatening emergencies, prescription refills, specialist referrals, nutritional counseling, disease management, and education. They accept walkins, appointments, telehealth appointments, and even house calls upon request. For the Jean-Glaudes, who hail from the south-east part of Haiti, Aux Cayes, Port-Salut, operating the business has been a labor of love, driven by the belief that everyone deserves the same quality healthcare regardless of status. These values were planted early on in Haiti. Their families knew each other, and both had decent and hardworking backgrounds. It was no surprise that such like-minded people found success in love and as business partners. The Jean-Glaudes are also the proud parents of two daughters, Priscilla, 18, and Emily, 14. ʺAlthough we have very busy schedules, our priorities are still the kids. We make sure we get home early every afternoon to spend time with them,

The Power Couple at the Helm of Primary Medical Care Centers Share How They Balance Faith, Family, and Business

check on their homework, pray with them. Later, we keep working at home,” says Edwige. Despite their remarkably busy schedules, the Jean-Glaudes still find time for their faith and family. “We have tried to utilize whatever time we have together,” explains Prinston. “Whether it means bringing the kids to school, helping them with their homework, jogging together in the afternoon, and sometimes social events on weekends together, or going to church as a family.” The Jean-Glaudes believe the true key to their success is their faith and trust in the Lord. They’re proud of the extraordinary care that they provide for their patients, and that that’s what makes Primary Medical Care Centers unique. They’re always there for their patients in their moments of need, whether it’s a wedding or funeral. Another crucial factor is the teaching they offer their patients to empower them to take better care of themselves. “And last but not least, our employees,” says

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COVER STORY Prinston. “We have a great staff working with us. They proudly care for and value our patients. They don’t go to bed until they ensure that all our patients are home safe from their appointments. We thank them for their unconditional love.” To any young person interested in starting a business, the JeanGlaudes’ advice is succinct: “Starting a business is not easy and making it a success is even harder. However, with determination, integrity, faith, humility, and hard work, it is

Primary Medical Care Center has been a labor of love, rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the same quality healthcare possible. Start with a goal, gather positive and constructive feedback, and never give up.” This power couple proves that it is possible for two high-achieving people to work

together in a successful business partnership without sacrificing their relationship and family life when they truly put their faith first.

Q&A Haiti Open: Where were you born? Prinston & Edwige: We are both from the Aux Cayes, Port-Salut - in the southeast part of Haiti Haiti Open: What did you do when you got to the United States? Prinston: Fortunately for us, our parents supported us when we first arrived. We were able to keep going to school. Education was our priority. I attended Miami Dade Community College, then FIU, and earned a master’s degree at Barry University. Edwige: We came to the United States with our primary focus on education. We both went to Miami Dade Community College, then I went to Barry University. Haiti Open: What brought Mr. and Mrs. JeanGlaude together? Prinston & Edwige: Both of our families knew each other in Haiti. We each knew that we came from similar family backgrounds of decent, hard-working people. Therefore, we decided to give a relationship a try while in college. This of course, led to marriage.

Haiti Open: You both have two beautiful daughters? What are their names, ages, and how is it like raising daughters in the JeanGlaude household? Prinston & Edwige: Priscilla Jean-Glaude, 18; and Emily Jean-Glaude, 14. Although we have remarkably busy schedules, our priorities are still the kids. We make sure we that we get home early every afternoon to spend time with them, check on their homework,

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pray with them, and later on, we keep working at home.

Haiti Open: I am sure you have very busy schedules. How do you mak e time for each other and the family? Prinston & Edwige: We have tried to utilize whatever time we have together. Whether it is bringing them to school, helping them with their homework, jogging together in the afternoon, and sometimes social events on weekends, or going to church together. Haiti Open: How did the idea for Primary Medical Care Center come about? Prinston & Edwige: Primary Medical Care Center was established in 2013. Our love for our parents started it all. As we watched their struggle in search of better health care, the idea sprouted to create a healthcare center to serve our community.

Haiti Open: When you left Haiti, did you know you would get into the medical business? Edwige: Not medical, but some kind of business. My mother was a small business owner in Haiti. I have witnessed how my mom worked so hard to achieve success. I was always driven to follow in her footsteps. Haiti Open: Tell us about the owners of Primary Medical Care Center. Prinston & Edwige: Prinston Jean-Glaude’s background is in information technology (IT) from FIU and Barry University; and Edwige Jean-Glaude is a nurse with a BSN from Barry University.

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COVER STORY Haiti Open: What challenges did you face when starting Primary Medical Care Center? Prinston & Edwige: Starting a business has its challenges. Our experiences from our other businesses helped in the process. However, planning the operation and executing the ideas required a lot of arduous work. Haiti Open: How has the community received the Primary Medical Care Centers?

Prinston & Edwige: The response has been truly unbelievable. Because we always welcome our patients with a smile, and we treat them as family. In return, they have become our voice in the community. Without their support, we would not be at the point that we are at today. We are incredibly grateful for the support.

Haiti Open: On Nov. 12th, 2021, Primary expanded to Miramar, Pompano Beach and Palm Beach, what was the experience like to have three grand-openings in one day? Prinston & Edwige: It was an extremely exciting day for us. Our goal has been to keep opening Primary Medical Care Centers in any city, county, or state where there are communities where the needs are great. Haiti Open: Five clinics within 8 years (20132021), what’s driving Primary’s success? Prinston & Edwige: We have seen the needs for primary care in our underserved communities and how our parents struggled with uncaring healthcare providers and have received disparate treatment. We have been inspired and motivated to work harder each and every day to provide the quality healthcare our community truly deserves. We also know that even hard work, determination, and discipline, are not enough to succeed. We believe the key to our success is having faith and trust in the Lord. God makes it all happen at the end of the day.

Haiti Open: What makes Primary Medical Care Center different from its competitors? Prinston & Edwige: It is the extraordinary care we provide for our patients that makes us unique. We are always there for them in moments of need,

whether it is a happy occasion, like a wedding, or an unfortunate event, like a funeral. Another crucial factor is the teaching that we provide for our patients, to empower them to take better care of themselves. And last but not least, our employees. We have a great staff working with us. They proudly care for and value our patients. They don’t go to bed until they ensure that all our patients are safely home from their appointments. We thank them for their unconditional love.

Haiti Open: What advice would you give to a young person who is trying to start their own business? Prinston & Edwige: Starting a business is not easy and making it a success is even harder. However, with determination, integrity, faith, humility, and hard work, it is possible. Start with a goal, gather positive and constructive feedback, and never give up. Haiti Open: Primary donated to the Grand Sud Earthquake relief efforts. What prompted you to donate such a sum? Prinston & Edwige: We have seen the struggle of our own people post-earthquake; it could have been one of us there. We believe it is a social responsibility to help those in need.

Haiti Open: In the next 8-10 years, where do you see Primary Medical Care Center? Prinston & Edwige: We would love to continue expanding primary Medical Care Centers to different counties and cities where there are underserved communities. Haiti Open: Are you planning to start any other business or involved in any other endeavors? Prinston & Edwige: There is a possibility, but not now.

Haiti Open: What are your hobbies? Prinston & Edwige: Jogging as a family, reading books, golfing, watching television, and spending time with family and friends.

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PRIMARY GRAND OPENING

Miramar Clinic Nov. 12th, 2021

Photos by Gerry Brierre & Ricardo Saint-Cyr

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PRIMARY GRAND OPENING

West Palm Beach Clinic Nov. 12th, 2021 Photos by Gerry Brierre & Ricardo Saint-Cyr

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PRIMARY GRAND OPENING

Pompano Beach Clinic Nov. 12th, 2021 Photos by Gerry Brierre & Ricardo Saint-Cyr

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2021 ALBUMS

“QQA”

YON ALBÒM AK SIKSÈ ENTÈNASYONAL Revizyon Albòm pa Ford Pierre

ibliye 18 Jen 2021, “Quoi qu’il advienne” se 3èm albòm Rutshelle Guillaume. Yon seri mizik eksepsyonèl ki a 15 chan, plen ak emosyon ki melanje mizik Kompa ak mizik Afro-Karayib. Nan albòm sa, nou jwenn Diva an kolaborasyon avèk atis etranje tankou Kamewounyen Salatiel, nan tit “Poze” epi chantè Franse R&B Singuila, nan tit “Sa k rive nou”. Epi tou nou jwenn atis lokal tankou rapè popilè Wendyyy nan chan “All on me” epi menm Oswald nan remix “Rete la”.

Li ka diskite ke “QQA” se albòm ki jwenn plis siksè nan ane sa. Trè apresye pa piblik la, se li yo kontinye koute pi plis sou platfòm difizyon tankou Spotify, Soundcloud, ak Apple Music. Se yon albòm HMI ki gen plis siksè entènasyonal e li te ranpòte pi plis moun ki gade li sou YouTube. Pou Rutshelle, travay sa se yon ekspresyon de

anvi li genyen pou siksè masiv, malgre difikilte ki parèt. Yon afimasyon ki konfime nan tit eponim lan, “Quoi qu’il advienne”.

“OPTION” YON ADAPTABILITE KI KONFIME

Revizyon Albòm pa Ford Pierre

hantè Ayisyen Oswald Clerveus te pibliye dezyèm albòm estidyo li, “Option”,sou 9 Avril 2021. Atravè disk sa, li envite w pou’w dekouvri adaptabilite li. Chantè a di, “Mwen fè anpil grenn chan deja e li te enpòtan pou mwen pote tout enfliyans mwen yo ansanm epi pou’m mennen odyans mwen yo vinn retounen nan mond mwen, pou yo ka dekouvri plis nan bò adaptabilite mwen an.” Domine pa stil mizik Kompa, albòm lan enkli yon total de 15 chan. Genyen yon ti soka ak rege ladann tou. Albòmlan prezante J-Perry, Stony, Bamby, Staniski ak Sael kòm atis envite. Tit tankou “Ti doudou” ak “Suc (Sur un carreau)” te byen resevwa pa piblik Ayisyen an, epi yo fè pami videyo mizik Ayisyen pi gade sou YouTube.

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2021 ALBUMS

“JIJE M”

YON ALBÒM KI BYEN RESEVWA PA PIBLIK LA

Revizyon Albòm pa Ford Pierre

ou 31 Out 2021, Kaï, fòmasyon mizik chantè Richard Cavé, pibliye dezyèm albòm yo ki rele “Jije m”. Sa fèt apre kat ane ke yo te pibliye premye albòm yo ki rele “Champion”. Pwojè a gen 11 chan ki enkli “Moun Tout Moun”, “Abizem”, “Koupab”, “Toutouni”. Kòm dabitid, Richard Cavé souvan akonpaye pa lòt atis sou plizyè nan pwojè li yo, e se konsa li ye toujou nan “Jije m”. Sou nouvo konpozisyon sa a, atis nou jwenn an kolaborasyon ak Richard Cavéchantè gwoup la, se Andy Beatz, Master Brain, Golden B, Bedjine ak Medjy. Chan ki demare albòm lan se “Jije’m”, e se li ki tit disk la tou. Kote nou jwenn yon kolaborasyon pafè ant dirijan vokal gwoup Kaï, Richard Cavé ak Medjy Toussaint, chantè fòmasyon Enposib la. Chan akonpaye pa yon videyo mizik ki disponib sou jou albòm lan pibliye, pou kounya li gen 2.6 milyon moun ki gade li sou YouTube. Konsènan varyete yo jwenn sou pwojè sa a, li enpòtan pou presize kolaborasyon gwoup la ak jèn atis AndyBeatz

sou chant “Lari a pa bon”. Chan sa ofri yon ritm enteresan, make ak yon atmosfè “rabòday”. Avèk 11 chan kote nou jwenn yon gwo varyete, ki swa nan tèm de son oswa nan mo, jeneralman, albòm “Jije M” te byen resevwa.

“MAJESTIC”

YON NOUVO KLASIK POU GWOUP T-VICE Revizyon Albòm pa Ford Pierre

-Vice, Gwoup Roberto Martino te pibliye 12yèm albòm estidyo yo sou 21 Septanm, ki rele “Majestic”, 4 ane apre albòm “Kite m viv”. Se yon pwojè ki gen 11 chan ki enkli “Renmen rete”, “Sou lis”, “Kite m shows w”, “Tizè w”, “Nou Gen Pou n ale a”, kote gen envite respektivman Michel Martelly, Kanis, Phyllisia Ross, Mikaben ak Gdolf. Gwoup la te pibliye de videyo mizik pou chante “Regle Zafè w” ak “Kite m shows w”. Dènye a, an kolaborasyon ak atis briyan Phyllisia Ross deja akimile plis pase yon milyon moun ki gade’l sou YouTube depi le li lanse a. Lide vokal T-vice la kontan anpil ak reyalizasyon sa a e li pwofite remèsye fanatik li yo ki te pale byen de travay frè Martino yo. Ak renmen kòm tèm ki dominan, albòm lan te byen resevwa pa odyans yo.

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CARIBBEAN CULTURE FEST

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EVENTS: OCT. 2021

CARIBBEAN CULTURE FEST

aribbean Culture Fest Organizer, staff and team delivered a jam-packed itinerary of live artists. After taking a break for the pandemic, Caribbean Culture Fest returned for their 2nd annual event. The crowd was wowed by how much the event has grown in just one year. The ambiance was perfect to match the new renovation of the Miramar Regional Park. The series of events presented by Madame Gougousse came back with a bolder vision and a new name. Formerly known as Creole Culture Fest, this year’s event Organizer and Haitian-American Marketing Guru Patrick Fabre and his team proved that they were ready to set the stage. The series of events debuted with a pre-event featuring Gabel, DJ Staks, Kenny and Mikaben. Continued with a Press Conference hosted by the Event Administrator and Publicist Nephtalie Hyacinthe. The night was then left to be moderated by Talk Show Host Vanessa Joseph. Beauty Queens Diana Pierre-Louis and Ruthlourne Morency served as Pagers. The press conference discussed the importance of togetherness in the Caribbean Music Industry. “I am delighted to welcome Caribbean Culture Fest to the City of Miramar for a second time. This wonderfully diverse event featuring performers from across the Caribbean, is a reflection of the make-up of our city and I am hoping people of all

Host City for Caribbean Culture Fest. It was a beautiful night of moderator, artists, organizer, and team wearing their best look and available to answer questions on past, present and future projects. The night continued at the Warehouse for the kick-off party with music from K-Dilak, Bedjine, Tonymix and KreyolLa. Festival day 1 and 2 was opened by Nephtalie Hyacinthe (PR & Administration) and Diana PierreLouis (PR Assistant) who welcomed the audience and thanked notable personalities attending Caribbean Culture Fest. Professionally guided by Stage Manager GS Simeon, the night was off to a good start. The Dr. Love Team took the stage as host to bring in the performers which features musical acts from several Caribbean countries such as the Guilty pleasure of the Haitian Women, by popular demand Grenada’s sensation and National Monarch, the feel-good harmonies from the Bahamas, the hype of

nationalities will attend. If you enjoy great entertainment and great food, this is certainly the place to be. “Said Mayor Wayne M. Messam, Miramar

Jamaica, and a very young and talented super star. Saturday & Sunday Line-Up include the incomparable voices and renowned

Proved that they are the Caribbean Cultural Event of the Year

Public Relations Strategist at Talie & Co. Strategies Penned and published contributor/op-eds @taliestrategies in various outlets.

This year there is no room for error. I have focused my vision to capture the essence of all Caribbean people and I’m certain that together we will experience the culture. Said Patrick Fabre.

sounds of: Bedjine, K-Dilak, Kai, Enposib, NuLook, Gabel, Vayb, TVice, Disip, Klass, KreyolLa, Blondedy Ferdinand, EKIP, Klik, I-Octav, Phyllisia Ross, TaraLynne, Kenny, Skinny Fabulous, Mr. Killa, Lyrikal, Prince Vendi, Static J, Steves J. Bryan, and WID. 12-year-old entrepreneur and two times published author, Delphine Dauphin, hit the stage as a presenter to do what was only right introducing her peer 10 Year-old Prince Vendi, son of Katalog from Gabel who ripped that stage apart and demanded respect for his stage presence and of course talent. Other Hosts include Success Jr, Majah Hype, and Coulgi. The house was hyped by DJs: TonyMix, DJ Bullet, DJ Raje, DJ Staks, DJ Young Chow, DJ TeddyMix. Caribbean Culture Fest received rave reviews from the performers for the hospitality that they received backstage. They glorified the Team for treating them at the highest level of stardom from start to finish. Patrick Fabre is grateful that people believed in him and partnered in some capacity amongst them: Our Vendors and Media Partners, Madame Gougousse, Bongu, Johnny Cuba, Credit Data 1, Primary Medical Care Center, Tagmoon, Truth Lounge, City of North Miami Beach, KSE Group, Office of Mayor Wayne, Messam - City of Miramar, Cola Choucoune, Grind Diva and Talie & Co. Strategies. This is definitely an event you will want to attend next year.

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Loyal-T Series Grand Premier Miami Photos by Carel Sylvain

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HAITI OPEN Fall 2021

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