Empowering future leaders in Haiti

Haiti is only a four-hour flight from NYC, yet it feels worlds away. I first went to Haiti in early 2015, after getting involved with the Port-au-Prince–based English in Mind (EIM) Institute in 2014. I immediately fell in love with this often-misrepresented nation—the spirit, tenacity, and graciousness of its people, displayed in the face of hardship many outsiders would find unimaginable.

Originally started by International Disaster Volunteers in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake, EIM is now a Haitian-led, Haitian-taught, and Haitian-administered school and community. The school offers classes five days a week to over 200 students across Port-au-Prince, following a Cambridge English syllabus with internationally recognized exams. The goal is simple: empowering Haitian students to create the changes they desire. It starts with education. In Haiti, fluency in English can increase earning potential by up to twenty times. Without it, the average daily income is around $4—if work can be found

Over the years, EIM has grown from humble beginnings into more than a school—a community focused on nurturing next-generation Haitian leaders from the inside out. A dedicated collaboration between teachers, students, and international volunteers facilitates not only English education, but leadership training, job placement, cultural exchange, and initiatives aimed at building Haiti’s potential as a unique adventure tourism destination.

Volunteers, donations and sponsorships are equally needed and appreciated. Visit the EIM website above to learn how to be part of meaningful change

photography: emily winiker; bess adler
design: jaime kleiman