Over 500 Haitian women and members of the Haitian Diaspora gathered this weekend to celebrate and create a memorable experience. The 19th Annual Haitian Ladies Weekend featured a variety of activities, including celebrations of Haitian art, engaging dialogues, and business networking. This year’s theme, “Igniting Our Power 2024,” served as a framework for exploring the potential and resilience of the Haitian community.
The origin of Haitian Ladies Weekend began as a brunch and a reunion among friends, evolving significantly over the years. It has now transformed into a major weekend dedicated to empowerment and collaboration. This conference fosters and revitalizes the conversations surrounding Haiti.
Day 1: The Warmest Welcome:
Women experienced a warm welcome at The Capitol Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C. As you sit on the bus heading to the gallery, the spirit and energy of the conference begin to build. You start to connect with others and introduce yourself, or catch up with friends. Everyone shares a brief summary of their travels and what they’re looking forward to this weekend. “Is this your first time?” is a common question you hear as conversations flow among attendees.
Spirit & Strength: Modern Art from Haiti
Ariel Dominique (Executive Director, Haitian-American Foundation for Democracy; Co-Founder Haitian Ladies Network.) invited Joanne Hyppolite (African Diaspora Curator at the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of African American History and Culture), who would provide the history of the experience to her inviting Kanitra Fletcher, (Associate Curator of African American and Afro-Diasporic Art National Gallery of Art). She is also the curator of the current exhibit “Spirit & Strength: Modern Art from Haiti.”
Ivenise Butts observing part of the St. Trinity Episcopal Cathedral Mural ‘Ascension’ by Castera Bazile
The collection features 21 pieces, divided into three sections that explore historical depictions of everyday life, spirituality, and the influence on Black artists in the United States. Katrina highlighted the historical significance and intricacies of some works as the audience moved through the exhibit. As you observe the artwork, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe about how much deeper and more impactful this weekend could be.
Fashion, Music, Art and Culture:
As the sun set and the women changed into their stunning cocktail outfits, excitement, and energy filled the room. The reception was hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti in the United States. The space radiated warmth and music, celebrating Haitian culture. Attendees danced and mingled, creating a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere. The evening concluded on a high note with a beautiful showcase of samples from Haitian businesses and designers that would be featured throughout the weekend. The warmth and hospitality experienced during the reception set the stage for a promising and exciting weekend ahead.France Fancois @franceisacountry (Left) Ruth Jean-Marie @lesocialnomad (Right)
Such a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere, with dancing and fun to fill the night. The evening concluded with a beautiful showcase of samples from Haitian businesses and designers that would be featured over the weekend. The warmth and hospitality experienced at the reception set a promising and exciting tone for the days ahead.
Day 2 The Symposium
Wellness and Marketplace
Day two offered a variety of inspiring opportunities for education, advocacy, and self-care. The morning wellness session, led by Christina Clodomir, provided a chance to start the day with yoga. Additionally, the Kreyòl Essence Wellness Lounge offered another self-care option, featuring guided massages and reading sessions hosted by Simbi Duplan and others.
The Haitian Marketplace was a curated Marché by Haitian-American fashion designer Dayanne Danier. Bringing together Haitian businesses and founders into one space. Providing opportunities for attendees to support and learn about Haitian businesses including those directly from Haiti.
The Haitian Ladies Igniting Our Power Symposium
The symposium started with the Board of Directors of Haitian Ladies Network welcome, and featured a welcome address by award-winning journalist Magalie Laguerre-Wilkinson, Vice President and Executive Producer at Paramount Global. To open Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, the first Black woman to represent Florida’s 20th congressional district boldly reviewed the current state of our democracy, her personal experiences in Congress. She empowered the audience through her story, providing a call to action for the election.
Two key themes emerged from the Haitian Ladies Weekend Symposium. The first theme, highlighted by Congresswoman McCormick, focused on the importance of fighting for Haitian rights by sharing personal stories and amplifying Haitian voices. The second theme, presented by H.E. Dominique Dupuy, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Haitians Living Abroad, emphasized the resilience of Haitian citizens. He encouraged attendees to harness their power to contribute to Haiti’s resurgence.
The Engaging with Haiti: Nou se Wozo
If it was unclear before how to help Haiti, this panel shed light on ways to contribute not to charity, but to rebuild the dialogue and provide real influence to change. International consultant and moderated Monique Clesca, featured speakers Danièle Magloire, spokesperson for Kay Fanm (Women’s House), Vélina Élysée Charlier, feminist and a political activist of Nou Pap Domi and Empress of Lakou Souvenans, and finally civil engineer Pascale Oriol, Founder and President of Vox Evolution
Important Key Points:
HERstory
Martine St-Victor, General Manager at Edelman, engaged in a discussion with communications strategist, host, and producer Danielle Cadet. They explored Martine’s journey in publishing, from breaking stories that shaped the Black Lives Matter movement to her significant contributions at Essence, ESPN, and Netflix. The conversation was moving, touching on themes of pride, family, and persistence. Martine navigated the discussion skillfully, posing questions that resonated with many in the audience. They discussed the journey of motherhood, the call to one’s career, staying true to one’s authentic self, and how her Haitian heritage influences her life and work.
Let’s Get Real:
The end of the afternoon transitioned into topics carried out in separate rooms. The Haitian Ladies Network ensured there was something for everyone at the Haitian Ladies Weekend. From civic engagement to entrepreneurship, from dialogue in the medical space on body autonomy and advocacy to the conversation with the next generation of Haitian leaders. These transformative sections gave their audience the tools to advocate for our community and revolutionize the conversation on Haiti.
Closing Of Symposium:
The night ended with explosive and educational dance informational with Grounded in Heritage, Rooted in Rhythm a conversation that provided context on music and folkloric traditions and energy led by Ariel Dominique, Dr. Charlene Désir, and Vélina Élysée Charlier. This informational session provided the context for La Grande Danse led by Riva Nyri Précil and Linda Isabelle Francois Obas. Accompanied by talented drummers, they taught a powerful Haitian-Folkroe dance as attendees connected and collaborated energy through music and the spirituality at Haitian Ladies Weekend.
Instructors Linda Isabelle Francois Obas (left) and Riva Nyri Précil (Right)
If dance was not your thing, there was another exciting event adjacent called “Haitian Ladies After Dark” as they sat with Dr. Suzie Richardson-Armas. An intimate conversation on intimacy, body, and womanhood. This conversation ended on a fun note as everyone navigated to dancing and fun.
Day 3 : La Fin
Mehïka Dorval (far left), Lyne Lucien (center), Quianna Mortimer (far right)
The bittersweet reality of waiting till next year to have such an amazing weekend sets in. They kick off the morning with a fun Rhaboday Fit with Christ Maika Jochamin. With fun and laughter for everyone! The rest of the morning was dedicated to educating mobilizing and strategizing around what we are doing in our communities and how we are uplifting and supporting the local causes in Haiti. Attendees also had an opportunity to meet the first Haitian American democratic nominee for Governor of Vermont, Esther Charleston.
The 19th Annual Haitian Ladies Brunch was a vibrant celebration of Haitian culture and empowerment. The room was filled with stylish attendees from various backgrounds, all coming together to enjoy a delicious traditional Haitian breakfast. The event kicked off with a warm welcome and expressions of gratitude from the board of the Haitian Ladies Network. Next, Martine St-Victor took the stage and spoke passionately about the strength and resilience of the Haitian diaspora.
Finally, the room filled with excitement as images appeared showcasing the creative process of a renowned Haitian-Italian designer Stella Jean. The energy shot through the roof as Jean made her way onto the stage. She shared her journey into fashion, her relationship with Haiti, and finally her journey and her collaboration with the infamous artist Philippe Dodard for Haiti’s award-winning Paris Olympic designs. She spoke about the importance of working with Haitian artists and artisans not only as inspiration but as artists doing the work emphasizing “It’s Not Charity, Just Work” a known part of her campaign in this sustainable fashion space. There was an emphasis on the moral obligation to do right by the story and illustrate the true fabric of Haitian people.
Actress and television personality Garcelle Beauvais concluded the brunch by sharing her thoughts on the significance of sisterhood, which resonated throughout the weekend. She discussed the challenges women face today and emphasized the importance of supporting one another.
The event concluded on a lively note filled with love and music. People said their farewells as DJ Kemissa Trecile, a Haitian female producer and owner Au Top, sent us off. Attendees danced and enjoyed the music while raffle giveaways took place at the marketplace. As the brunch wrapped up, participants reflected on the motivational takeaways they had gathered. No matter who you are, there was something for everyone at the Haitian Ladies Network Weekend 2024. Attendees laughed, cried, and felt inspired to find their place within the complexities of Haiti, embracing both the good and the bad.
The collection features 21 pieces, divided into three sections that explore historical depictions of everyday life, spirituality, and the influence on Black artists in the United States. Katrina highlighted the historical significance and intricacies of some works as the audience moved through the exhibit. As you observe the artwork, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe about how much deeper and more impactful this weekend could be.
Fashion, Music, Art and Culture:
As the sun set and the women changed into their stunning cocktail outfits, excitement, and energy filled the room. The reception was hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti in the United States. The space radiated warmth and music, celebrating Haitian culture. Attendees danced and mingled, creating a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere. The evening concluded on a high note with a beautiful showcase of samples from Haitian businesses and designers that would be featured throughout the weekend. The warmth and hospitality experienced during the reception set the stage for a promising and exciting weekend ahead.
Such a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere, with dancing and fun to fill the night. The evening concluded with a beautiful showcase of samples from Haitian businesses and designers that would be featured over the weekend. The warmth and hospitality experienced at the reception set a promising and exciting tone for the days ahead.
Day 2 The Symposium
Wellness and Marketplace
Day two offered a variety of inspiring opportunities for education, advocacy, and self-care. The morning wellness session, led by Christina Clodomir, provided a chance to start the day with yoga. Additionally, the Kreyòl Essence Wellness Lounge offered another self-care option, featuring guided massages and reading sessions hosted by Simbi Duplan and others.
The Haitian Marketplace was a curated Marché by Haitian-American fashion designer Dayanne Danier. Bringing together Haitian businesses and founders into one space. Providing opportunities for attendees to support and learn about Haitian businesses including those directly from Haiti.
The Haitian Ladies Igniting Our Power Symposium
The symposium started with the Board of Directors of Haitian Ladies Network welcome, and featured a welcome address by award-winning journalist Magalie Laguerre-Wilkinson, Vice President and Executive Producer at Paramount Global. To open Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, the first Black woman to represent Florida’s 20th congressional district boldly reviewed the current state of our democracy, her personal experiences in Congress. She empowered the audience through her story, providing a call to action for the election.
Two key themes emerged from the Haitian Ladies Symposium. The first theme, highlighted by Congresswoman McCormick, focused on the importance of fighting for Haitian rights by sharing personal stories and amplifying Haitian voices. The second theme, presented by H.E. Dominique Dupuy, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Haitians Living Abroad, emphasized the resilience of Haitian citizens. He encouraged attendees to harness their power to contribute to Haiti’s resurgence.
The Engaging with Haiti: Nou se Wozo
If it was unclear before how to help Haiti, this panel shed light on ways to contribute not to charity, but to rebuild the dialogue and provide real influence to change. International consultant and moderated Monique Clesca, featured speakers Danièle Magloire, spokesperson for Kay Fanm (Women’s House), Vélina Élysée Charlier, feminist and a political activist of Nou Pap Domi and Empress of Lakou Souvenans, and finally civil engineer Pascale Oriol, Founder and President of Vox Evolution
Important Key Points:
HERstory
Martine St-Victor, General Manager at Edelman, engaged in a discussion with communications strategist, host, and producer Danielle Cadet. They explored Martine’s journey in publishing, from breaking stories that shaped the Black Lives Matter movement to her significant contributions at Essence, ESPN, and Netflix. The conversation was moving, touching on themes of pride, family, and persistence. Martine navigated the discussion skillfully, posing questions that resonated with many in the audience. They discussed the journey of motherhood, the call to one’s career, staying true to one’s authentic self, and how her Haitian heritage influences her life and work.
Let’s Get Real:
The end of the afternoon transitioned into topics carried out in separate rooms. The Haitian Ladies Network ensured there was something for everyone. From civic engagement to entrepreneurship, from dialogue in the medical space on body autonomy and advocacy to the conversation with the next generation of Haitian leaders. These transformative sections gave their audience the tools to advocate for our community and revolutionize the conversation on Haiti.
Closing Of Symposium:
The night ended with explosive and educational dance informational with Grounded in Heritage, Rooted in Rhythm a conversation that provided context on music and folkloric traditions and energy led by Ariel Dominique, Dr. Charlene Désir, and Vélina Élysée Charlier. This informational session provided the context for La Grande Danse led by Riva Nyri Précil and Linda Isabelle Francois Obas. Accompanied by talented drummers, they taught a powerful Haitian-Folkroe dance as attendees connected and collaborated energy through music and the spirituality.
If dance was not your thing, there was another exciting event adjacent called “Haitian Ladies After Dark” as they sat with Dr. Suzie Richardson-Armas. An intimate conversation on intimacy, body, and womanhood. This conversation ended on a fun note as everyone navigated to dancing and fun.
The bittersweet reality of waiting till next year to have such an amazing weekend sets in. They kick off the morning with a fun Rhaboday Fit with Christ Maika Jochamin. With fun and laughter for everyone! The rest of the morning was dedicated to educating mobilizing and strategizing around what we are doing in our communities and how we are uplifting and supporting the local causes in Haiti. Attendees also had an opportunity to meet the first Haitian American democratic nominee for Governor of Vermont, Esther Charleston.
The 19th Annual Haitian Ladies Weekend was a vibrant celebration of Haitian culture and empowerment. The room was filled with stylish attendees from various backgrounds, all coming together to enjoy a delicious traditional Haitian breakfast. The event kicked off with a warm welcome and expressions of gratitude from the board of the Haitian Ladies Network. Next, Martine St-Victor took the stage and spoke passionately about the strength and resilience of the Haitian diaspora.
Finally, the room filled with excitement as images appeared showcasing the creative process of a renowned Haitian-Italian designer Stella Jean. The energy shot through the roof as Jean made her way onto the stage. She shared her journey into fashion, her relationship with Haiti, and finally her journey and her collaboration with the infamous artist Philippe Dodard for Haiti’s award-winning Paris Olympic designs. She spoke about the importance of working with Haitian artists and artisans not only as inspiration but as artists doing the work emphasizing “It’s Not Charity, Just Work” a known part of her campaign in this sustainable fashion space. There was an emphasis on the moral obligation to do right by the story and illustrate the true fabric of Haitian people.
What really made Haitian Ladies Weekend so impactful was being able to connect with Actress and television personality Garcelle Beauvais concluded the brunch by sharing her thoughts on the significance of sisterhood, which resonated throughout the weekend. She discussed the challenges women face today and emphasized the importance of supporting one another.
The event concluded on a lively note filled with love and music. People said their farewells as DJ Kemissa Trecile, a Haitian female producer and owner Au Top, sent us off. Attendees danced and enjoyed the music while raffle giveaways took place at the marketplace. As the brunch wrapped up, participants reflected on the motivational takeaways they had gathered. No matter who you are, there was something for everyone at the Haitian Ladies Weekend 2024. Attendees laughed, cried, and felt inspired to find their place within the complexities of Haiti, embracing both the good and the bad.
