Anseye Pou Ayiti founder Nedgine Paul wants to achieve the most formidable feat yet as an educator—that of renovating Haiti’s educational system. Named a “Woman of the Year” by Challenge News, the Haiti-born and Connecticut-raised social entrepreneur is working with educators from the most remote areas of Haiti.

Her goal? To transform them into change agents for the 16,000 students she hopes to reach in the next five years.

Through a fellowship offered by her organization, she retrains teachers for a two-year period. The leadership skills they acquire through Anseye Pou Ayiti makes it possible for them to go back to their hometowns and apply excellence-focused programs at the elementary level.

In Part One of the interview, the focus was the background of Anseye Pou Ayiti. Now, we’ve moved the conversation to make it about Nedgine Paul, the person behind the social movement.

Kreyolicious: Is there anything that you used to be lousy at that you’ve gotten better at?
I have struggled with communicating big goals and expectations beyond my immediate circle of family and friends. Being very honest about those things often involve a lot of vulnerability. So much of building the Anseye Pou Ayiti movement requires communicating to different groups, including in-person, remotely, and even with social media.

Kreyolicious: What steps did you take to get to that level?
What has helped me is being curious about new strategies, open to learning, and proactive in getting feedback (positive and critical!) about my communication skills. I looked for a model of what “excellence” in this would look like, I reached out to others for help (peers and mentors who consider communication as a strength!), and I tried to improve one thing at a time (communicating with a small group, making public presentations, practicing a “pitch”). One step at a time was my approach, and I am still working on getting better!

Kreyolicious: What advice would you have for those out there who are reading your story, and who are just a few years away from being 30, or have already turned 30, and who are looking at your accomplishments and making comparisons—unfavorable comparisons…feeling weighed down? You know like,”OMG, look at this girl, she’s on Forbes 30 Under 30.What would you like to say to them?
We are in this together. I truly believe that. I am so honored by the Forbes recognition and my opportunities, but Anseye Pou Ayiti is about a collection, a movement of people who believe and have gotten involved in ways big and small. I absolutely credit all those who have taught me, supported me, laughed with me, and challenged me along the way. I would ask those who are looking at their path: Who do you surround yourself with? Those who inspire you, push you to be your best self, and lift you up when you have doubts? I have been blessed to have that in my life. I can also say I value hard work and have started to get more comfortable with risk taking, which absolutely make a difference when you’re a social entrepreneur.

Kreyolicious: What are you going to be undertaking next?
Now and next is Anseye Pou Ayiti – I am deeply committed to doing whatever I can to make the Anseye Pou Ayiti movement as successful as it can be, changing what people think is possible when society invests in collective leadership so all Haitian children receive the quality education they deserve.

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Chapo ba pou Marechal Mimi ak ti Jan (Hats off to Marechal Mimi and Little John) is a Creole language motivational book Atlanta resident François Nau has written to show the importance of education in the lives of Haitians. In doing so, he’s also shown the effectiveness and the potential of Creole as a language tool to instill culture and awareness about Haiti’s past.

Growing up in La Vallée, a small town near the city of Jacmel as the oldest of nine siblings in the 1970s, Nau’s parents did not have the chance to go to school. And so did many of the kids his age, who by the time they were 17, had only two destinies awaiting them: working on their respective families’ farms, or head over to the Dominican Republic to cut cane for the big sugar firms. With that pattern in place, Nau says it took 484 years from the discovery of Haiti in 1492 to 1976, for one of the kids in that remote town to reach the university level. By the early 90’s, only six people have completed their secondary education and went to college. Nau was on the them. Thanks to the tireless efforts of his parents, he attended college and landed in law school in Haiti. He eventually left for the United States, and along with his wife Edith, he instills the values of education in his three children Joe, Chriss, and Belle.

Chapo ba pou Marechal Mimi is more than a motivational book. It’s Nau’s tribute to the people of his hometown, and has reminisces and glimpses of the Haiti of the past, when happiness was achieved out of the simplest pleasures. Nau plans to travel to Haiti to promote the book in his hometown and will be giving out a literary prize in honor of this mother.

Q&A

How did idea for Chapo ba pou Marechal Mimi ak ti Jan originate?
A few years ago, after a long and tough day at work, I came home and was helping my kids with their homework. I was so tired, that I became impatient and hit my son, who was not really into studying at that particular moment. I left him alone for a while, and then call him back so we could continue. He was not ready yet. I became more impatient and gave up on helping him. I went to bed that night with the thoughts that something was not right. It’s my responsibility to help him and missed a golden opportunity to show him that even if he doesn’t do well in school, I’m always going to be there for him.

I started to think of my mother, who every night would sit by the table where I was studying. She would make sure that the lamp was filled with kerosene and that I had enough light to study. When I finish studying, she would make me recite my lessons. For a number of years, I had no idea that she could not read. It took me six years to realize that. Once, she held the book up side down, I thought she was extremely smart to be able to read in it like that. I thought of all the calamities she endured to provide every one of us an education with love and patience. She never gave up on any of us. I cried and I asked myself: What kind of parent gives up on his son this quick? Have you thought of what your mother went thru with you? I started to deeply reflect on our community, our familial background and found out that this woman, my mother, was a hero. With all [due] respect for the other parents, I don’t think anyone has accomplished more than this woman in education. I gathered the information that I could remember and retraced how our family became what it is today. Chapo ba pou Marechal Mimi ak ti Jan is a salute to her vision, dedication and courage.

You’ve chosen to write this book in Creole.
Creole is the language of the Haitian people. It’s been made one of the official language of the land by the Constitution of 1987. But, creole has not been accepted in a lot of circles. The schools that I went to won’t let the students speak creole on the school yard even today in 2012. How absurd is that, they teach creole in the schools; but, its use is prohibited outside of the classroom? Most of the educated Haitians can read and write french, but do they really understand it? All the didactic materials of our educational system are basically in french. Most kids will go home with homework and neither papa nor manman would be able to help them, because they don’t know how to read or write. Even if the students read a text to their parents, that too won’t help because they don’t understand French. Teachers sometimes spend hours preparing courses, but in reality; they’re preparing their French skills; not the curriculum. Interaction is rare and difficult between teachers and students. Reading and writing are not part of our culture. Books are not easy to get or to buy and they are extremely expensive. Books written in French are usually very expensive. If by chance one has access to a book, a dictionary is needed in order to read and understand it. While creole writing is understood as it is read. Creativity is not part of the equation. Most Haitians are very quiet when it comes to write their creative ideas. We, very often, are hit by that French complex that it has to come out perfect. Substance doesn’t matter much, but style. Who wants to see people criticize with disdain their creation? One has to be very secure and strong to face these obstacles.

The main purpose of Chapo ba pou Marechal Mimi ak ti Jan is to thank the Marechal and all the other mothers who like her invested everything in the education of their children. I can’t say thank you to them in a language that they do not understand. I want the ones who can read to be conscientious and happy. I want them to know that they are appreciated and loved in their language as well as their work. Young Haitian children need motivation and confidence to move on and make an impact in that new millennium. If they can’t freely speak their mind, there will not be any tangible progress 50, 100 years from now. I want them to know that the creole language is a safe way to create, speak, communicate, read and write. I want to speak to the people; I have to speak their language, creole.
These are some of the most obvious reasons why Chapo ba pou Marechal Mimi ak ti Jan is written in Creole. Your readers may think that I’m discouraging the youth from learning other languages. Wrong! I, myself, am fluent in 5 languages. I’d like to see them learn as many languages as they can; but, I’d love creole to be recognized and counted amongst them.

Do you think it’s essential for this generation to teach their kids to write and read Creole?
Again, it’s not only creole; they have to be prepared for any circumstances that may arise in life. Communication is so important today, learning languages is essential for this generation. But, if you’re Haitian or have some Haitian background; it’s a plus to be able to use the Haitian language. Creole is now taught in a lot of US Universities. A Creole Academy surprisingly may be established outside of Haiti.

You live in Atlanta, Georgia. How is the Haitian Community there?
The Haitian community in Georgia lately has grown considerably. That may be the reason why Dela Airlines is flying non-stop Atlanta to Port-au-Prince on Saturdays. The area—Acworth—where I live doesn’t really have a unified Haitian community. We are lost in the middle of this huge forest and we are 1000 miles away from each other. Georgia reminds me so much of my village La Vallée that I truly have to keep it in my mind. From the southeast of Haiti to the southeast of the US, I love it.

What’s next step for you in terms of the book?
First, I’ll be in La Vallée in the middle of July for a private ceremony to honor my mother, the mothers and educators of La Vallée de Jacmel. This event will take place at the Auberge Mont Saint Jean in Ridoré. All the school principals and people engaged in education are invited to attend. The book will be presented to the public and the notables of the city. Chapo ba pou Marechal Mimi ak ti Jan is the first book published by a Valléean at this scale. I’ll have the official signing of the book a day later at the primary school Léonce Mégie where I received my first dose of education. I’ve offered the local radio station my first interview, the first book signing event will be in La Vallée as well. I didn’t want to give any interview or to do any signing until the people of La Vallée de Jacmel are served. JEBCA editions, who published the book, is working very hard to promote the book in Haiti and in the US.

Do you have a bilingual version in the plans?
Chapo ba pou Marechal Mimi ak ti Jan is a motivational tool that should be translated in a 1000 languages. I don’t want to be snob; but, I feel that I’ve written a master piece of the caliber of Les gouverneurs de la Rosée.

How do you instill Haitian culture in your kids, and in your own life?
I’m a proud and conscientious Haitian citizen. The insult, calamities and humiliation that Haiti has faced have only increased my love for Her. “Pour le pays, mourir est beau”, I’ll always believe in it. I’m hoping for the renaissance, Haiti will someday reconquer her crown and flourish in the heart of America as she has in the 15th , 16th , and 17th century. I’ve been in the US now for 13 years, but my heart has not come in this voyage. I can’t wait to go back home and serve my Community. I owe a lot to Her. Most people think they can help only by giving; but my plan of action is to help by serving. Nothing has changed in my habits; we cook and eat Haitian food every day at home. Thanks to my wife who is an excellent cook. We speak, joke, read and write creole; the kids with some difficulties, but they are connected to their roots, music, konpa etc……And they go to Haiti once a year.

What was it like moving to a brand new country, and dealing with this new environment?
It was very difficult at the beginning to learn a new system and a new way of life when I came in September 1999. It was the Y2K era. What was I, a peasant from so faraway from civilization, doing in the middle of so much technological confusions? But, after 1/1/2000, it didn’t take me long to establish and reposition myself. Thanks to a great friend Jules Fresnel, who assisted me along the way.

You no doubt have observed Haitian parents with their first and second generation U.S.-born kids. What do you usually observe? What do you think can be done in terms of maintaining Haitian culture?
Unfortunately, we, in the diaspora are the ones apparently who care the most about our Haitian identity. The reason, maybe, is because we’re detached from our culture and we refuse to adapt to this new environment. These facts push us back to our roots to find refuge. The ones who live in Haiti are immersed into the things that we’re craving for every day: labapen, mango, kann, rapadou, pwason boukannen, griyo ak bannann peze, ti poul kreyòl ak pentad wousi, but social unrest, insecurity and political instability do not let them enjoy and appreciate them. It’s very tough for the first generation, because parents like me refuse to admit that we’re here. We expect our kids to be as obedient as we were to our parents. It takes a lot of time to recognize the differences. At first, most of our references to our kids are pulled from our situation back home. At time discontent is very high on both side; but, wisdom prevails in most cases. The second generation adapts more quickly and navigates the two worlds with more ease.

Unlike a lot of other foreigners, we tend to Americanized very fast. We, Haitian parents, are so eager to adapt that our kids mostly don’t have to be around to assist us. More and more people in Haiti are using the American culture and language in their daily activities. We need to reinvent ourselves with the youth and present a new image of the Haitian people and culture. This new image has to be created by Haitians and supported by Haitians every where. We, very often, are more sensitive to helping foreigner accomplish projects in Haiti than helping Haitians.

Anseye Pou Ayiti (Teach for Haiti) is one of the boldest initiatives to launch on behalf of Haiti’s educational system. Founded by Nedgine Paul—an educator—the organization aims to transform classrooms in Haiti through the reprogramming of educators.

Above: Nedgine Paul, founder of Anseye Pou Ayiti.

By its fifth year of existence, APA estimates it will serve 16,000 students from Haiti’s most underserved cities, and will have had about 250 teachers go through its mindset changing, two-year fellowship program.

Nedgine Paul figured on Forbes magazine’s 30 Under 30 List, and got the attention of pop star John Legend, who lent his name and voice in support of the organization.

Care to know even more about Anseye Pou Ayiti and its founder? Read some more!

Kreyolicious: You grew up in Connecticut. What was that like? Were you close to the Haitian community?
I feel so grateful and privileged to have been born in Haiti, then spend most of my childhood and adolescence in the Haitian community of Norwalk-Stamford, Connecticut. My father was the Episcopal priest leading a Haitian congregation in Stamford, and that opportunity introduced me to the beauty, strength, and power of the Haitian diaspora community. I was able to play an active role in leading youth programs, tutoring, and student enrichment activities in the Haitian community, including the annual Quisqueya Summer Camp for several years. I was very close to the Haitian community, and I believe that gave me an even stronger desire to stay connected with my native Haiti.

Kreyolicious: At the core of Anseye Pou Ayiti is education…We know there is no education without competent teachers and other educators…Who was the teacher who inspired you the most in life?
This is such an important question to me personally, because several teachers have been role models. I have to name two: Madame Salomon, my fourth grade teacher. She is a Haitian educator who taught in a French language immersion program in Maryland where I was enrolled after moving from Haiti. She loved her country, heritage, and culture – and I was privileged to see a model for that, beyond my parents, at a young age. I will also always appreciate Mme Salomon’s emphasis on excellence, effort, and integrity. I continue to push for excellence and strong character in all that I do with students and education efforts.

I also have to name Professor Lillian Guerra, an incredible history professor during my undergraduate years at Yale University. She is an expert historian who focuses on the Caribbean and Latin America. She inspired and encouraged me to immerse myself in the history and truth of Haiti, including grounding my passion for education reform in researching the history of education in Haiti.

Kreyolicious: What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment since starting Anseye Pou Ayiti?
I feel my biggest accomplishment has been the opportunity to be a connector with young Haitians in Haiti and the diaspora who believe deeply in the possibility of education equity and a new approach to community leadership in Haiti – and who have shared that Anseye Pou Ayiti is reminding them or reigniting their dream to get involved. I am so grateful that Anseye Pou Ayiti is bringing together people who believe that a new narrative of our beloved Haiti is possible, for Haitians and by Haitians, especially when we join forces to invest in what matters most.

Kreyolicious:What do your folks have to say about their little Nedgine being the head and founder of such an organization and initiative?
They are so incredibly supportive. I could not be more grateful for parents who instilled a deep love and pride of nation, culture, and community in their children, and it has been such a journey for them to see how that has evolved into my role as co-founder of Anseye Pou Ayiti. I thank my parents every chance I get, because I absolutely credit them for teaching me the power of faith, respect, hard work, and community – all of which are woven into my core values today and my leadership.

Kreyolicious:When you’re a leader, people don’t imagine that there are times when you might lack motivation,or that you might have moments of discouragement. How do you handle moments like those?
Faith is number one for me. I wouldn’t and couldn’t have come this far – and hopefully keep moving in the right direction – without having my faith at the center of it all. I am also so grateful for my family, who are always there for support, advice, or even a listening ear whenever needed and even from a distance. I think it’s important to surround ourselves with people who believe in change, who believe we can push against the status quo even during the dark moments. Even having one or two people who believe that in your circle – it makes all the difference. I have to say there is power in joy and laughter too – because this work is so difficult, we have to take some time with people who care and can remind us to celebrate even the mini successes!

Kreyolicious: So, you have a  a B.A. in History from Yale College and an Ed.M. in International Education Policy from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Being that you’re practically running a non-profit and you’re a social entrepreneur…would you have done things differently if you had known that this was where life would take you?
No. I wouldn’t have done things differently because I believe my path was not by coincidence. I am so grateful and humbled by the privilege of my experience. It has introduced me to ideas, people, and opportunities that have deepened my belief in and passion for social justice. I would not be the person I am today – what I do and how I do it – without the mix of my experiences.

This concludes PART ONE OF THE INTERVIEW WITH NEDGINE PAUL OF ANSEYE POU AYITI. CHECK OUT PART II…MEANWHILE…

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