Inspiration(s)

Photo: Claudinette Fouchard
1960's Haitian Beauty Queen

The richness of Haitian culture, to me, has always been a little-known fact that is often overshadowed by images of poverty, disease, and what seems like constant adversity. Even in all the country has to overcome however, there is still reason to smile and reason for Haitian descendants to be proud.

Most people know that Haiti was the first Black republic in the world but Haiti's accomplishments to our society span far past its revolutionary beginnings. Great political figures such as W.E.B Du Bois and Jean Baptiste Point du Sable (founder of Chicago) were of Haitian descent. Contributors of the modern arts such as artist Jean-Michel Basquiat and singer Maxwell also have Haitian roots.

All that said, what's my point?

Whether it be for the sake of socialization or to bring awareness to a particular focus, there needs to be an underlying purpose when in the business of allocating time and resources for the benefit of others. It may be indirect (as in employing the life lessons and principles passed on to me by my parents) or direct (as in celebrating Haitian culture through programming), but it is always the case that much of my own attention diverts itself to my roots. As an undergrad, I founded the Haitian Cultural Association and helped bring to life an organization that exists for the purpose of highlighting aspects of the Haitian culture. Past events included cultural shows, panel discussions, fundraisers, and collaborations with other student groups (Example: http://www.bu.edu/today/node/10273). HCA still thrives in my absence and I am very proud of the vision I left behind at BU.
My love and respect for my culture has always played an integral role in my methodology and overall perspective. It is something that I use as a catalyst for inspiration and implementation and it continues to be a chief motivator in the work that I accomplish.

"Beauty unparalleled, grace undefined,
an Alpha Kappa Alpha woman is one of a kind"

My senior year of college I was so fortunate as to join the ranks of Coretta Scott King, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, and Toni Morrison in becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. The ideals and principles that formed the foundation of my organization are all qualities I aspire to embody and my maturation into a woman of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated has allowed me to become a better person for myself, my sisters, and the community I serve.


Think Pink Week 2011

 As Vice President and Programming Chair of the Everloving, Everlasting Epsilon Chapter, I was able to host several events throughout the year, culminating in our annual "Think Pink Week", a series of educational and social events aimed at addressing our 6 national platforms. My journey into AKA has been both a humbling and inspirational experience and I look forward to a lifetime of sisterhood, scholarship and service.