The economy has collapsed and violent clashes are commonplace. There is currently no functioning government, parliament, justice system, security, education or healthcare. This is devastatingly serious and has hit the population hard - already struggling to rebuild after the earthquake of 2010, which killed more than 200,000 people and caused catastrophic damage to the country’s infrastructure.
Angie’s deep love for Haiti and its people motivates her. She founded PouBèlAyiti, an artistic movement focused on keeping the streets of Haiti free from waste. Geared to children across the island, the movement also aims to bring more awareness and action towards climate change through educational projects. She has also co-authored a book –– which she believes will help hundreds discover the beautiful, rich heritage of her country and connect Haitians around the world.
Then there’s Magalie Dresse, the entrepreneurial owner of Caribbean Craft - the largest craft company in Haiti. Born in Port-au-Prince, Magalie did her undergraduate degree in Haiti before studying for her Masters in New York. She tells me that, against the wishes of her parents, she returned home because of her desire to spearhead change. A mother of two college students, Magalie finds potential in everything and everyone around her.
Currently around two million homes use charcoal, and these toxic fumes kill around 4,000 Haitians each year, mostly women and children. Sadly, deforestation means that Haiti has only 2% remaining forest coverage left, making this an environmental emergency. Families are desperate to switch to propane, however most can’t afford it.