NAAHP Blog

Tell us about yourself

Being born first generation in Miami, Florida my mom raised and instilled me with a lot of Haitian cultural roots. As a kid, I enjoyed every single moment of being around friends and family. Like many Haitians, I am mild mannered, passionate, hard working and I love to laugh. Running at the professional level for ten years has been no easy task, as it requires a lot of discipline. However, I am very passionate in representing Haiti and my goal is to see things change in sports for our country. In general, I am a simple guy who dreams big and believe that the impossible is possible. Everyday, I live life by this motto:

“Work hard, believe in your Greatness, and have Faith through it all”.

What led you to a career in sports, specifically running?

As many individuals growing up I was very active living up in Miami, Florida. I began playing basketball, soccer, and baseball. As I went from sport to sport, I realized I had a tremendous of endurance. Therefore, I gave running a try and I instantly could see where my gift was.

What did it feel like competing in the Olympics in 2004?

Competing in the Olympics in 2004 was a great realization of accomplishing a goal that I set for myself as a youth. Right before the start of my races, I can recall having a vision of seeing all the hard work I put in my life that got to this point. It was a overwhelming and excited experience.

How did it feel to be in London for the 2012 games?

Running in London Olympics was simply a proud moment. Wearing the colors and having Haiti across my chest was simply an honor to represent my family, friends, culture, country, and who I am.

Was there disappointment that you did not medal in either games or were you simply happy for the experience?

Going into the Olympics I definitely had my eyes on the medal and leaving London without one was very disappointing. However, after putting things in perspective, I know that this was just the beginning for the Olympic teams to come, which was something I could live with.

How do you handle the pressure and scrutiny of not only being an athlete but an ambassador of sorts for Haiti?

Since I have high expectations of myself, I handle pressure well. I actually welcome pressure, but more or less I see it as an opportunity to prove to myself and others when odds are against you, you can still accomplish what you set forth.

Aside from running, what are your other passions?

Aside from running, I’m big into the structure of society and the individual. I catch myself reading articles related to different subject matters across the world. I’m also a dare devil and love to get a thrill out of life. I love to jet ski, skydive, drive fast, get on roller coasters, and anything that you can get a rush from. Besides that, I like to relax and hang out with my teammates, girlfriend, friends, and family.

You expressed frustration with the still lingering side effects from the 2010 earthquake which devastated Haiti. Do you feel that there has been any progression since then?

I’ve seen and read the progress in rebuilding our country but I think that diaspora can agree the progression has been lagging. Nevertheless, I think we are headed in the right direction.

How would you like to give back to Haiti?

I currently have an annual Run for Haiti 5k that is held in the Northern Virginia/DC area. The relief effort goes towards organizations in Haiti that are helping the country and local communities rebuild. I would like the 5k to reach across the masses so that the organizations in Haiti can really benefit from it all.

Where do you see yourself in four years? Competing in Rio or doing something else?

In four years, I do see myself competing in Rio, in international track meets, and having our Olympic team doing much better.

What would be your advice to young people who want their careers and lives to have an impact?

To young people who want their careers and lives to have an impact, my advice is remember what your goals are. Always dream big, believe in yourself and your dream. Do not spend much time on a plan B, because you should be too focus on your plan A.

What do you think can be done for Haiti to develop financial assistance without having to be reliant upon others in times of crisis?

I think the diaspora communities across the globe can come together in their particular country and build financial systems or settings where Haitian in Haiti can reach out to during times of crisis. For example, having a origination such as the “Red Cross” that only aides in recoverying Haiti. I believe if Haitians living abroad help Haitians in Haiti in this particular, we will began to see a connection between the gap with the diaspora and the native people.

Do you believe a campaign highlighting the positives of Haiti would be worth exploring to take away the stigma of it being impoverished?

Having a campaign that highlights great positive leaders can definitely take away the stigma of a nation being filled with impoverishment is worth exploring. I do not only support it, I encourage it.

Would you recommend NAHP to Haitian students and professionals? Why?

I would recommend NAHP to Haitian students and professionals for the mere fact that it exemplifies excellent and hard work within a community.