NAAHP Blog

“Being a good professional is essential, but it is equally important to have a well-connected address book filled with the names of other professionals in your field.” This is how Jacquelin Alcius begins our interview, sharing his enriching experience with the National Alliance for the Advancement of Haitian Professionals (NAAHP).

Jacquelin Alcius is a dynamic entrepreneur, Director, and Founder of the Alternatives Business Incubator and Accelerator (ABIA). With a law degree in hand, he ventured into the business incubation sector. His first encounter with NAAHP was in 2014. Even as a young professional back then, he understood the critical importance of networking. “Networking is fundamental in a professional’s life; it allows for new collaborations, meeting other experts in the field, and potentially securing business contracts,” he explains.

During the NAAHP’s annual conference in 2022, Jacquelin not only dedicated his time but also mobilized his entire staff to support the event. He describes this experience as extremely rewarding and highlights the positive impacts of his connection with NAAHP. “At such events, the benefits can extend far beyond the professional realm. For instance, I met the best man at my wedding during a NAAHP conference,” he recounts enthusiastically.

Since its inception ten years ago, NAAHP has established itself as a leader in organizing events for the Haitian diaspora community. Each year, this conference brings together Haitian professionals from the United States and Haiti to share ideas, experiences, and futures perspectives. “NAAHP gives participants the chance to meet personalities whom they might find hard to interact with outside of this setting. That’s why it’s crucial to make the most of the conference,” Jacquelin emphasizes.

Beyond its professional scope, Jacquelin underscores the cultural importance of this event. He believes that NAAHP plays a vital role in reconnecting the new generation of Haitians in the United States with their cultural heritage. “Through NAAHP, young people discover Haitian culture and their true identity as Haitians.” However, he suggests giving more space to young people doing remarkable work in the community and prioritizing bilingualism to include new arrivals who are not yet proficient in English.

In conclusion, Jacquelin strongly encourages participation in the NAAHP’s annual conference, which will take place next November in Atlanta, Georgia. “Attending these events requires having a clear objective. The NAAHP annual conference is a fabulous experience you will never regret,” he asserts confidently.