Amidst great challenges, Many Hands’ Haitian educators are working tirelessly to shape the lives of their students and build a brighter future for their nation. Dive into the inspiring stories of these educators, highlighting their passion, resilience, and the profound impact they are making. Through their words and actions, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face, the motivations that drive them, and the hope they bring to their communities.
The words of our dedicated Haitian teachers offer a glimpse into the heart of their mission. Their unwavering belief in the power of education is truly inspiring.
The Power of Education
“I chose the teaching profession because it is a pleasure,” shares special needs teacher, Djenasselie Dulorier. “I take pride in teaching the kids who are forming a future.” Her words reflect a deep sense of purpose and satisfaction in her work. Sixth grade teacher Jocethène Decius echoes this sentiment, referencing Nelson Mandela’s famous quote about education being the most powerful weapon for change. Sheesling Alexandra Israel, inspired by her own positive experiences with teachers, chose to become a teacher “so I can contribute well to bring transformation for my country, Haiti.”
Pictured above: School of Light teacher works with a student
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the challenges they face, these educators remain steadfast in their commitment to their students and their country. “I saw the situation of my country,” says Venia Jean, a special needs teacher. “I want to help grow roots to train kids in society so we can become a different country.” Her words reveal a deep-seated desire to break the cycle of poverty and create a better future for Haiti. Nerlande Saintilus, recognizing the potential in her students, strives to help them, with the idea that one of her students could be “a Doctor, a Pastor, a Nurse, an Engineer.” She is a 5th grade teacher.
Pictured above, left and right: Haitian schoolkids
The Impact on Students
The teachers’ love for their students is evident in their words. PS2 teacher, Mirguelita Noel expresses her affection for children, saying, “I love kids. I love to work with them.” Her words are filled with warmth and compassion. Elimene Fleuridor, a PS1 teacher, believes that with the right nurturing, students can “advance so tomorrow our society will be a better place.” Her words highlight the transformative power of education. Nicole Millien shares a similar vision, hoping to “raise up the kids to find a better quality education so they can help the country and to become good citizens tomorrow.” Good citizenship is an emphasis in her 1st grade classroom.
The Role of Mentorship
Many of our teachers were inspired by their own mentors and teachers, recognizing the profound impact they had on their lives. This experience motivates them to provide similar guidance and support to their students. As Patricia Souverin, a PS3 teacher helper, put it, “I want to see Haiti change and I have a love for kids. This is what made me enter into the education field.” Her words reveal a deep-seated desire to create a better future for her country through education.
Pictured above: A lesson about trust; Trust fall practice is a fun activity!
Their Call to Action
Many Hands’ school Secretary, Lourdenie C. Jean Baptiste, recognizing the potential in every child, says, “Working in the department of education gives me satisfaction when I can assist with the kids who are the HOPE of the country.” Her words emphasize the importance of investing in education for the future of Haiti. Francoise Marcelus, a 3rd grade teacher, echoes this sentiment, stating, “We want this generation to advance so they can equip the country with change; so the country can become better.”
Pictured above: Current Many Hands School of Light
Additional Quotes That Speak to the Passion of Many Hands’ Haitian Educators:
- Elimene Fleuridor, PS1 teacher: “I consider the students like a plant and the teacher is the fertilizer. With enough fertilizer the students will advance so tomorrow our society will be a better place.”
- Nerlande Saintilus, 5th grade teacher: “There is so much opportunity within when you work with kids.”
- Willianise Pierre, PS1 teacher helper: “Teaching is a way to help kids bring change in our society.”
- Faviolande Jacques, 3rd grade teacher helper: “Without education you won’t have a country. You won’t find lawyers, doctors. Education is the thing that brings the most change in the world.”
Pictured above: First Many Hands School of Light class
Join us in empowering these dedicated educators and giving Haitian children the opportunity to reach their full potential. Your support can make a real difference in their lives and help build a brighter future for Haiti.
donate to a teacher's salary here!
About Many Hands:
Many Hands is an Iowa-based nonprofit creating local and global life-transformation by strengthening families. Established in 2008, the organization focuses on six key areas for transformation, including education, agronomy, leadership development, safe homes, medical assistance, and economic development. Each year, the organization reaches at least 25,000 people through their Haitian operations, IMPACT trips, and Many Hands four Thrift Markets located in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area.
Many Hands is called to transform together, to be love in action, in a broken world.
