The Republic of Haiti was the world's first black-led republic and the first independent Caribbean state when it overthrew French colonial rule in the early 19th century. Since then, the people have faced both struggles and triumph. 

 

Gerard Gattereau, a long standing leader and entrepreneur in Les Cayes, a major seaport town in southwestern Haiti, has dedicated his life to improving his community and wanted a world where all children, youth and adults have access to education. Gerard is the president of Le Chambre De Commerce Et D’Industrie Du Sud (CCI) which aims to promote development in the South by helping local entrepreneurs, community leaders and residents develop their capacity to make their communities a better place to live and work. Gerard recognizes the vital role young people play in contributing to the future of Les Cayes and, with a group of young, inspired and passionate people, approached Sfaira about a project they had been planning for years: a simple, universally accessible youth empowerment center called La Maison De La Jeunesse.

 

What they envisioned was the first center in the area to provide young people with the space, resources and mentors needed to achieve their highest potential. CCI partnered with La Sale Culturelle Tirailleur, a cultural centre, to retrofit their existing building, for the centre.

 

On August 15, 2016, Gerard and the young people of Les Cayes opened the doors to the centre and now have access to clean water, sanitary systems, cultural activities and educational facilities and programs, all run on solar power. Youth have driven the design, creation and content of the space. A public library now supports youth in their social mobility and access to digital and print information. Weekly youth development and leadership programs will be offered to promote basic literacy skills, academic and career achievement, sustainable development and civic engagement.