Culture played a significant role in the emergence of visual artist Kiki Toussaint. Born and raised in Long Island, Kiki was sent to Haiti by her parents to Haiti. After graduating from high school in Port-au-Prince, she moved back to the United States where she attended Long Island University. From there, life took her to Las Vegas where she currently lives with her family. Out of all the moves she made, she feels that her years in Haiti played the biggest role in her creativity. “Even before I moved to Haiti,” she says, “I understood through my parents that Haiti has a rich tradition in music, dance, and art.”

Art is, of course, the tradition that Kiki prescribes to. Women are the subject of practically all her paintings. The women she portrays in her works have a nonchalant air, a defiance to them, and lots, lots of attitude.

Kreyolicious: How did you find the artist in you?
I lost my father on January 12, 2010. After the earthquake, I tried everything in my power to get to Haiti. Only people in the medical field were able to travel there. I even considered flying down to the DR to see if I could make my way to Haiti from there but it was way too risky to do alone. I felt so disconnected and far away from Haiti that I drew the Haitian coat of arms on a canvas and began to fill it in with sequins and beads. Not in the same fashion that “drapo” is made but visually it appears similar. I distinctly remember watching Anderson Cooper report on survivors while I pieced together my coat of arms with glue in one hand and tweezers in the other. It was my connection to Haiti. To help me work through my pain, I started a blog where I mentioned street merchants selling various goods. I decided to paint one, I knew I wasn’t a painter, but I figured it can’t be too hard because Haitian art is known for being “primitive”. I tried to make the image as primitive as I could but wasn’t content with it. I kept refining it over and over until I came up with my first piece which I call “Machan Feuille” [Herbs Seller].

Kreyolicious: So you’re based in Vegas. Is there a huge Haitian-American community there?
There isn’t a huge Haitian-American community in Vegas. It’s pretty small especially in comparison to New York and Florida. I know of a church, a small store that carries some spices and talk radio that airs on Sundays. I think once a year a party in thrown in the park, but for the most part it’s small.

Kreyolicious: Do you think that art education is something that should be emphasized in schools?
Absolutely! I believe art allows a child to express themselves which in turn boots self confidence. Art allows you to develop emotionally, mentally, and socially. It gives a kid the freedom to bring to surface what’s inside of them without judgment. I think it also helps with problem solving. Have you ever watched a kid paint and when they’re completely satisfied with the last stroke, they lay the brush down and throw their hands in the air and say “finished” watching that is such a great feeling!

Kreyolicious: Has a painting every made you cry out of frustration?
Good question! Cry? Never! Stress? Absolutely! My most difficult painting was “La Cubana”. She sat unfinished for a long time because I hadn’t tackled a project with so much detail, I was afraid I wouldn’t get what I wanted. I didn’t know how I was going to make here wrinkles as crisp as I wanted them. I just kept going until it worked. There was a point when I kept adjusting her gaze because she kept staring out into nowhere, and I wanted her to look at straight at you. Once again, with trial and error, it eventually worked.

Kreyolicious: Would you say that your parents have been supportive of your career choice?
Always supportive. My poor parents. [Laughter] They’ve dealt with a lot because I was all over the place.

Kreyolicious: I notice that you paint women more than any other subject. Who’s the strongest woman you know?
Goodness that’s a tough question because I don’t have just one. I come from a long line of strong women, each generation dealing with challenges of that era. I remember when the earthquake happened so many people were on Facebook reposting each other’s timelines in order for news to circulate and keep people informed. After I learned of my father’s fate, I posted it on my timeline to thank everyone who helped and instead of putting Facebook away, I continued to help circulate news of loved ones by posting and reposting. I received a private message from a friend who’s name is also Kiki. The message said, “Ou se yon bon jan fanm lakay” [You’re a real woman]. Simple words, but I took so much pride in that message. I hope to one day join the ranks of my long line of strong relatives. I paint women especially old women with wrinkles because their faces tell a story. I have respect for old women—women who carry the so much on their shoulders, women who have pain written all over their faces. I paint women because women are the backbone of our country.

Kreyolicious: Do you think that the fact that you live in an exciting state like Nevada has had an impact on your art or given you a sense of urgency as an artist?
Las Vegas is just now emerging onto the art scene. The sense of urgency is lower than it would be if I lived in a major city with more appreciation for culture.

Kreyolicious: Do you visit Haiti often and what affect has that had on your artistry?
I don’t visit often. The last time I visited was after the earthquake.

Kreyolicious: What would you say has been your biggest moment of triumph?
I know this is not related to art, but it would have to be my son. I was told by three doctors that I would never conceive. After four years of trials and tribulations, we started to consider adoption when I was blessed with my baby boy.

Kreyolicious: That’s awesome…What advice would you give to the Kiki Toussaint that was just starting out?
I would say stick to what pleases you and create what you want to surround yourself with. The right audience will appear.

CHECK OUT KIKI TOUSSAINT ON FACEBOOK| CLICK HERE TO VISIT KIKI TOUSSAINT’S WEBSITE AND COMMISSION A PAINTING!

Davidson Toussaint is succeeding where some thought he never would: in the Haiti tourism business. With Haiti Tourism Inc, the company he founded in 2011, Toussaint and his team of three (Yendy Cave, Marketing Director; Jacob Gay, Director of Public Relations; Mireille Toussaint, Vice President) pound the pavement daily, in search of new methods to market Haiti to the world.

And they don’t miss one arena. On social media networks like Facebook and Twitter, the Haiti Tourism Inc team is tireless, constantly sharing beautiful images of Haiti, and posting updates about positive developments regarding Haiti. On the company’s website, Haiti’s praises are sung endlessly. But Haiti Tourism Inc doesn’t just gush about Haiti online and call it a day; its members go out in the field to add substance to virtual claims. Haiti Tourism Inc regularly sponsors cultural activities and the company holds Haiti-themed excursions to help others discover the country’s underrated, and under-visited destinations. Haiti Tourism Inc team members attend trade fairs, conferences, and even pageants, to help spread the word about Haiti’s splendor.

Working from his office in Tampa, Florida, Davidson Toussaint wouldn’t want it any other way. He and his team plan to go at it for a long time, until he feels that Haiti has regained its place as a popular destination in the Caribbean. And even beyond that point.

Davidson Toussaint, Yendy Cave, Jacob Gay, and Mireille Toussaint gave us the low-down regarding the activities of Haiti Tourism Inc.

Q & A

How did Haiti Tourism Inc came to be conceptualized?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: First and foremost, thank you for giving me this great opportunity to talk about Haiti Tourism Inc, a company that I truly love. Now, the concept of highlighting Haiti, her beauty, and her potentials to the world took place in the Dominican Republic. While a student at PUCMM—Pontificia Universidad Catolica Madre y Maestra—I became tired of hearing people spewing negative stereotypes about Haiti and her image. I felt like I can do something to give Haiti a voice where I was at. I chose to be a catalyst of change. Indeed, while our dear country is termed ‘poor’ according to outsiders, it is rich in beauty and its potentials are limitless. With that mindset, I created a tour program for foreign students to expose the beauty and potentials of Haiti. Our first tour took place in 2007. It was a success. I named it Haitours. Eventually, I left the Dominican Republic for the United States. Seeing a greater need to expose more people to Haiti’s beauty and potentials, Haiti Tourism Inc came to existence with the vision of highlighting Haiti’s beauty and potentials to the world.

Was the response you got when you first presented the idea to others favorable?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: The idea was favorable, theoretically speaking. Let me elaborate further, starting any business or organization is not easy. The ideas might be good, or great to some, but the actual work of launching that business or organization can be overwhelming. Sometimes you have to go against the naysayers and the doubters, bypassing them and keep pushing on for in your mind you envision a better Haiti and you want people to buy in as easily. At the same time, you realize you can’t convince everyone, so you build relationships with people who believe in the vision. Gradually, people began to understand the vision. Haiti Tourism Inc is not just about bringing tourists to Haiti; it is so much more. Now, we have a platform to show the potentials of the country; to show its beauty; to share our cultures to the world. We are exposing Haiti to the world and Haiti Tourism Inc. is doing its part with all of our resources.

What motivated you to become a part of Haiti Tourism Inc?
YENDY CAVE: I am a very country-oriented person. I always wanted to work for my country, do something different, stand out, and really help by my actions, and not simply words. When Davidson introduced me to the project, it seemed as if God had sent this to me as a mission, and I couldn’t be happier to be a part of it. I did not hesitate and barged in right away. It was for me an honor to be able to make a change for Haiti. The best part was that I would be doing something I love and something that would give me more experience in my domain. I am majoring in advertising and public relations with a minor in marketing. When Davidson approached me, it was to be the marketing director for Haiti Tourism Inc and I fit perfectly. I am so glad to be a part of this great organization and we are working hard to help developing tourism in Haiti

How did you become part of the Haiti Tourism Inc family?
JACOB GAY: I’m glad you refer to Haiti Tourism Inc as a family because I believe it is a family. I have known Davidson and his wife for some years. As my colleague, he approached me, explained me his vision and asked me if I would join this great endeavor. The timing was perfect for I had just obtained my Masters in Business Administration and was looking for such an organization to help with the skills I had just acquired. Then I was fortunate to meet Yendy through Davidson. I was elated to find out she was attending the same school I attended for my Bachelor of Arts as an undergrad. We continue to work as best as we can to promote the initiatives, goals and objectives of Haiti Tourism Inc while solidifying our commitment to see Haiti regain its moniker as the ‘Jewel of the Islands’.

In his book Stars Over Haiti, Anthony Hattenbach whose mother Muriel Shindler owned one of the biggest beach site resort s in Haiti in the 1970s in Haiti, recounts how each week three ships of tourists would land in Haiti, definitely a mass contrast to today. Do you think Haiti can regain this degree of popularity again with tourists?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: Yes, I think and believe so. I don’t want to sound as naïve with my answer. Haiti like many other countries in the Caribbean has the natural advantage to be a world touristic destination. The same great beaches and historical places people used to visit in the 1970s are still there. The hospitality and tourism industry is growing rapidly. It is a Billion dollars industry and I envision it reaching the stratosphere. With a company like Haiti Tourism Inc., we can set a new precedent with our approaches. Our strategies should be are as follow: Identify locations that are favorable for touristic destinations, develop them organically—highlighting things specific to that location, educate the people in key performance indicators, ensure, enforce, and promote security; lastly committed to the development and growth of the location by getting everyone involved. After all, there is not only just strength in unity but also prosperity, and a sense of togetherness.

David Toussaint(far left), the CEO of Haiti Tourism Inc, presides at a meeting with staff members and they are: Yendy Cave, Haiti Tourism Inc’s Director of Marketing (to his right); Haiti Tourism’s former Director of International Relations (sitting at the head of conference table) Haiti Tourism Inc Vice President Mireille Toussaint (in purple).

As Vice President of the company, what void do you think Haiti Tourism Inc fills?
MIREILLE TOUSSAINT: Haiti Tourism Inc envisions itself as the bridge between the world and Haiti. We seek to highlight the true potentials of Haiti through our positive social media platforms and in our website. This is the void that I believe we are filling: projecting Haiti in a new light unto the world.

What are some of the challenges that come with running a business like Haiti Tourism Inc?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: There are many challenges in running a business in general, but these challenges taught me valuable life experiences thus far. Besides the tedious relevancy associated with the cost of running a business, and logistics, I would like to go in detail with one of my greatest challenges. Haiti Tourism Inc. is not a sole proprietorship and we needed like-minded individuals to be part of the company. Some of them are friends, while others are acquaintances and business partners. The challenges with running an enterprise with friends posed many risks. Some decisions to be made are business decisions and not personal. Because of that, everyone in the team had to understand that this is a legitimate business and has dire consequences if the right business decision is not followed. We have had to sacrifice personal relationships but not to the detriment of our friendships. Our friendships will always be intact, but at the end of the day, if everyone contributes unequivocally—albeit personal feelings aside—we believe that Haiti Tourism Inc, will be a viable entity.

What words would you use to describe running your company?
MIREILLE TOUSSAINT: Fun. Delight. Passion. Involved. Guidance. Fruition. Reward. Happy.

How do you think Haiti looks to the rest of the world right now?
YENDY CAVE: To be honest, in general Haiti has never been seen in a great way from the rest of the world. We cannot blame them because the media usually only shows the bad that is happening to us. Although it is their job, it promotes us in an awful way, and people tend to be afraid to visit Haiti. They seem to have this horrible image and to them, Haiti is one of the most insecure and terrible places in the world. However, lately, many people have engaged themselves as to show the world the hidden side of Haiti. That is exactly our mission in Haiti Tourism Inc. Throughout, the help of the media and many Haitians who have engaged themselves to help us reach out to the world and show them what Haiti is in our eyes, the vision of Haiti has changed a lot in my opinion. It will take a while for people to be convinced that it is safe to come, and that Haiti is not only about poverty and insecurity. But I believe that with will and hard work, we will get there.

How are people responding to the efforts of your team? In Haiti, for example—as well as elsewhere?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: The responses have been positive for the most part, but we also have encountered doubters who didn’t believe that what we were and are doing is benefiting Haiti as a whole. Nonetheless, we are been encouraged to continue with the many positive responses we’ve received in Haiti, and elsewhere. We have had the opportunity to visit different countries—from different states in the USA to Japan. We are truly humbled and grateful from the support of people around the world. These people are sharing, liking, and twitting our activities in the social networks. The reception has been incredible. We reached more than 8 million people in more than 90 countries around the world. It is worth to mention that we wouldn’t be where we are without tireless work from our great team. I’m grateful to be able to work with such a diverse of great young Haitian talents.

What public relations milestone have you experienced since coming on board as PR?
JACOB GAY: Seeing people’s perceptions and viewpoints about Haiti’s changing positively is truly a gem. I take great comfort knowing that my endeavors on behalf of Haiti Tourism inc is shaping people’s perceptions. Also, seeing the medias and other entities seek out our company for a reference, or for a story about Haiti is gratifying to the works that we are doing. Nevertheless, we are not done because this team believes in the vision that our CEO established since our foundation.

Companies like Haiti Tourism Inc are doing a great deal in changing how Haiti is viewed in the international community. What more do you think can be done to help your mission along?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: Thank you for noticing, as well as the compliment. Sincerely, we couldn’t have accomplished these without your ardent support. Our mission is ingrained in our vision to be the purveyor of everything good coming out of Haiti. We make it our duty by choice to project Haiti in a positive fashion. We choose to educate the world about the beauty and potentials of our country, Haiti, through the positive things we align ourselves with. However, there are much more to be done. We need a coalition of people to continue to trot this movement forward. We need everyone to highlight Haiti for her beauty and her potentials. We are aware that Haiti is a work in progress, a country in transition. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to continue educate the world about the potentials that I see and advocate for dearly.

What’s an ordinary day like for the Haiti Tourism Inc team?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: [Laughter] There’s no such thing as an ordinary day for our team. Kidding aside, we plan our work and we work the plan. This company is dear to our hearts, it is a privilege to do something we like and enjoy. We have a dedicated team who know their crafts and are always busy at creating ideas to put us at the forefront of highlighting Haiti’s potentials and beauty.

Anything about your past background that made starting Haiti Tourism Inc especially easier?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: Growing up as a Boy Scout has allowed me to visit many cities and departments in Haiti. As a result, I developed a keen interest in discovering my country. Ultimately, the experiences I’ve had seeing the many beautiful places in Haiti made it easier for me to start Haiti Tourism Inc. I have seen the many picturesque locations throughout and I want to impress these same experiences on others; natural visuals that I know people will cherish forever. This is why I advocate passionately about not only to make Haiti part of your travel destinations but to also invest in the country’s development logistically, financially, and culturally.

As the person in charge of PR for Haiti Tourism Inc, what are your primary objectives?
JACOB GAY: With this being a young company, sometimes we find ourselves doing many tasks across the board. But, my primary objective is to help carve out a professional image of our company. I do this by constantly writing, reviewing, and editing memos, and other writings the company put out to the public. I also serve as a sound board for ideas that showcase our work to the public.

What advice would you give to others who are looking to start a career in hospitality, travel and tourism based on what you have learned in your own journey?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: You have to pursue your heart’s passion. It is so much easier to do something when your heart is in it. Moreover, you will need to sacrifice certain things in order to see your dream realized. Not all of us studied in the field of hospitality, travel, and tourism, so you will need to devote yourself to learn about it and learn from others. There are people out there who have a plethora of knowledge and expertise on these fields of study. You just have to learn and surround yourself with not only these people but also others who share in your vision and commitment.

In five years, where do you see Haiti Tourism Inc heading as a company?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: Initially, we started as a tour operator that not only focused on excursions, but in highlighting the potentials of Haiti through our diverse activities. These activities continue in operating our excursions but we have evolved into more of an entity that project the beauty of our dear country with all of our resources to the world. We have participated in events from Haiti, Miami to Japan, and elsewhere. These many activities fall under the umbrella in which we want to operate. We have partnered with individuals, other companies, and organizations to promote Haiti to the fullest. So in five years, continue to see us extend our excursion packages to be more inclusive, but also expect us to play a central role in working together with like-minded people or companies that are committed in seeing Haiti reclaim its moniker as the ‘Jewel of the islands’.

Why do you think that Haiti receives bad press for occurrences that are happening in other parts of the world that are themselves top tourist destinations?
JACOB GAY: It is all about perception and pre-conceived notions of and about Haiti. For so long all we’ve read has been negative news about our country. This is why a company like Haiti Tourism is effective in directing the narratives. No longer are people solely looking at the media for their narratives. We take it upon ourselves to open people’s eyes about what Haiti is through our social networks, our websites and events. We remain relentless in promoting the positive sides of Haiti, no matter what. In the end, we know we can’t control pre-conceived notions and stereotypes, but we choose to highlight Haiti as best as possible. After all, it is our dear country.

What’s the best thing about being an entrepreneur?
DAVIDSON TOUSSAINT: There are so many valuable things about being an entrepreneur. For me, the idea of using one’s creative ability to start a legacy is thrilling and inspiring. Along the way, you have the opportunities to meet pioneers, connect with great individuals, as well as overcoming challenges. Knowing that what I do and love can influence a community, a country, and the world is what motivates me to move forward on a daily basis. Lastly, thank you again for giving me this platform to share myself with your audience all over the world. I truly appreciate you. Have a blessed day.

Any other thoughts?
MIREILLE TOUSSAINT: I am just elated to have had this platform to share my thoughts with the world. I thank you again for this opportunity. I have high hope for our dear country and I truly believe in her potentials. My work will not be done until I see Haiti reclaim her moniker as the ‘Jewel of the Caribbean’.

YENDY CAVE: If I were to give any thoughts, it would be firstly to everyone out there, to tell them that Haiti IS beautiful, Haiti IS special, and they can only discover it by giving it a try and i can promise, they will not be disappointed. My other message would be for my fellow Haitians. Help promote Haiti as much as you can, because each word and each action is necessary to help the country move forward. Promoting Haiti’s beauty, talking about its magnificent monuments, telling the world how amazing this place is to you, can and will make a difference. Be proud and show it.

In a matter of years, Jimmy Jean-Louis has become the most prominent black actors in Hollywood and one of the most successful Haitian actors in Hollywood (some would say the most successful). Jean-Louis who immigrated to France while a pre-teen worked first as a model in Europe, then moved to the USA in the 90s, and has never looked back.

From roles in Phat Girls to Diary of a Tired Black Man to his iconic role in the television hit series, Jean-Louis practically typifies the Hollywood Dream. But he’s also spread his wings, having flirted with Nollywood, having starred in Relentless and the award-winning Sinking Sands, two African-produced dramas. One of the biggest highlights of his career thus far, is playing the Haitian revolutionary Toussaint L’Ouverture in the Philippe Niang biopic of the legendary 19th Century leader. Next up is a role as a priest alongside 50 Cent, Meg Ryan, John Lithgow, and Anthony Anderson in the film The Lives of Saints. For Jean-Louis, life is good.

At the time of our interview, the actor is fighting a really bad cold, but decides he wants to keep his word about our scheduled interview. Calling from Paris, France, the Pétionville-born actor is enthusiastic and animated as he discusses the Toussaint L’ouverture project, family life, and educating kids in Haiti, a cause close to his heart.

Would you tell us about the mini-series that you’re in, that’s about Toussaint L’ouverture?
As it is now, it’s two movies of 90 minutes. Part 1 and part 2. It’s a total of 3 hours. It was shot entirely in French, [with] a little bit of Kreyol as well. Shot in France and Martinique, which replaced Haiti as a location. It’s ready now. I believe between February or March, it will be available. It was financed by French television…France 2. It will be on their station first and then [it will be available] for the international market. I’m not sure yet how it’s going to be distributed, whether it’s going to be in theaters or broadcasted on an [American] television station.

How did you get involved?
The producers contacted me. You have to understand they have tried to make this movie for the past 20 years. And Danny Glover tried to make this movie for the past 15 years. And many other names have tried to make it. It was a long overdue movie. I was called by the producers to play the role, because they felt I fit the character. I had to do a lot of exercises. I had to learn how to ride a horse. I took lessons for a couple of months. [I had to learn how to] do sword-fighting. I took lessons in California and France.

Did you read any books to give you a sense of the time period?
Yeah, of course. I read a few books. I watched a few documentaries that were made about him. I had information coming from him from historians in America and France. Had a lot of conversations. So, I had to do a lot of research to portray him as well. I’m very, very proud of the end results.

Why was the movie filmed in Martinique and not in Haiti? A lot of people feel it would have brought a lot of publicity to Haiti, and it only seemed natural that it should be filmed in Haiti and not another island.
Haiti falls short on some requirements. I think the production tried, but it’s difficult to get insurance to insure a place like Haiti right now. From what I’ve been told, that’s one of the reasons why we couldn’t go there and shoot. The structure in Haiti is not the best either. Electricity. The roads are still pretty bad. As a Haitian, I would love to have shot it there.

Are you going to be returning to American television anytime soon?
I’m not sure as to what will come to me in the future. I’m open to all kinds of projects. I’m still doing movies in different places, in different markets. Whether it’s America, France, or Africa. As of now, I am not currently attached to any American TV show.

What was the last the last thing that made you cry?
[long pause] Well. [pause]. Maybe going back to Haiti. Definitely the earthquake. Since I’ve been going back and forth, I’m very touched by what’s happened. Every time you go there, you still find a good reason to cry. I was there last week, and the situation is still so bad. People losing their family members. The dire situation there.