Held at UMass Boston from November 6–8, 2025, the Summit brought together hundreds of business leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and community advocates from across the United States and Haiti for three days of inspiration, networking, and celebration.
From the opening ceremony to the final gala performance, the event was a resounding success — a testament to the strength and potential of the Haitian diaspora.
A Powerful Beginning
The Summit opened with Former State Representative Marie St. Fleur serving as the Master of Ceremonies, setting the tone for an event filled with excellence and purpose. Visionary leader Dr. Hans Patrick Domercant, President & CEO of the U.S. Haitian Chamber of Commerce, delivered passionate welcome remarks, emphasizing unity, innovation, and the collective power of Haitian entrepreneurship.
“This is just the beginning of a movement that will shape our future for years to come,” Dr. Domercant declared — a statement that would define the spirit of the Summit.
The opening keynote was delivered by Councilwoman Mary Estimé-Irvin of North Miami, who inspired attendees with her powerful message on leadership, resilience, and community empowerment.
Behind this historic event stood a Distinguished Host Committee who joined Dr. Hans Patrick Domercant in leading this vision. The committee included Aliesha Porcena, Director of Small Business, City of Boston; Dr. Gabrielle Abelard, CEO of Abelard Psychotherapy, Inc.; Emmanuela Romain-Amedee, Board Secretary of the U.S. Haitian Chamber of Commerce, Inc. / Haitian American Business Expo, Inc.; James R. Colimon, Deputy Director of Global Affairs & Protocol, City of Boston; Jessicah Pierre, Chief of Communications, City of Boston; Linda Dorcena Forry, Former Massachusetts State Senator; Marie St. Fleur, Former Massachusetts State Representative; and Paul Altidor, Former Ambassador of Haiti to the United States. Together, this group of accomplished leaders brought vision, experience, and collaboration to life — embodying the unity, excellence, and purpose that define the Haitian American business community.
Panels That Inspired Change
Over two days, participants engaged in impactful panels and discussions led by some of the most influential voices in the Haitian American community:
The State of Haitian American Businesses, moderated by Marc Saint Clair, explored the challenges and opportunities facing Haitian entrepreneurs across the country.
Access to Capital, Credit, and Wealth Building for Haitian Americans featured experts like Anthony Gaymes of TD Bank and Victoria Downes of Eastern Bank, offering practical strategies for financial growth.
Funding Self-Determination – A Global Initiative for Haitian Prosperity, moderated by Rebecca Obounou, united global changemakers including Dr. Guerda Nicolas and Dr. Howard Jean-Denis to discuss investment and self-reliance.
Staying Strong: Community Solutions for Mental Health and Business Resilience, led by Dr. Gabrielle Abelard, tackled mental health challenges and resilience in business.
The Customer Experience Revolution, moderated by Emmanuela Romain-Amedee, challenged Haitian-owned businesses to raise service standards to global levels.
Leadership Matters, hosted by Jessicah Pierre, featured powerful voices including Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, Councilor Tamisha Civil, and Councilwoman Mary Estimé-Irvin, highlighting civic engagement as a catalyst for empowerment.
Haitian Music & Movies: Industry or Illusion?, moderated by Jean Julien, sparked lively conversation among creatives like Robenson Lauvince, Raynald Delerme, Fritz Hyacinthe, Yvon Jerome and Farrah Larrieux about the state of Haitian arts and entertainment.
Starting a Business: From Idea to Enterprise, led by Hans Bastien, guided aspiring entrepreneurs on how to transform vision into sustainable enterprises.
The Closing Panel – One Diaspora, One Mission, moderated by James Reginald Colimon, brought together global leaders like Firmin Backer, Linda Dorcena Forry, Eldene Chugani, and Rebecca Obounou to discuss building a united Haitian business ecosystem.
A Movement of Recognition and Honor
The Summit was not only about dialogue — it was also about recognition. During the event, filmmaker Robenson Lauvince received two official citations: one from the Governor’s Office of Massachusetts and another from the Boston Mayor’s Office, honoring his creativity and leadership in promoting Haitian culture.
In a moment of deep pride, the U.S. Haitian Chamber of Commerce and Dr. Hans Patrick Domercant were also presented with a special citation from Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, celebrating their outstanding contributions to the Haitian American community.
Adding to the day’s prestige, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley delivered heartfelt special remarks during the networking lunch, emphasizing the importance of Haitian American leadership in shaping equitable policies and sustainable economic opportunities. She stayed to engage personally with attendees, symbolizing the unity between public service and grassroots leadership.
Networking, Vendors, and Community Impact
The energy in the UMass Boston Campus Center was electric, with hundreds of attendees participating in panels, networking sessions, and exploring vendor exhibits featuring businesses from Haiti, Chicago, Florida, and beyond. From small business innovations to cultural products, the Summit showcased the richness and diversity of the Haitian entrepreneurial spirit.
A Night of Celebration – The 6th Annual Haitian American Young Professional Awards Gala
The Summit culminated in a night of elegance and pride with the 6th Annual Haitian American Young Professional Awards Gala, honoring rising stars who exemplify leadership, innovation, and service.
The Gala, hosted by Former Haitian Ambassador Paul Altidor and Dr. Gabrielle Abelard, was nothing short of spectacular — blending professionalism, artistry, and heartfelt community spirit. Guests were treated to a live performance by Fatima.
Senator Liz Miranda of Massachusetts delivered special remarks and presented a citation to Dr. Hans Patrick Domercant, acknowledging his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing Haitian American excellence.
A Stirring Keynote by Councilor Tamisha Civil
One of the most powerful moments of the Gala came from Councilor Tamisha Civil, who delivered the keynote address. Councilor Civil, the first woman of color elected to the Massachusetts Governor’s Council since its founding in 1780, spoke with passion and authenticity about justice, resilience, and legacy within the Haitian American journey.
She reminded attendees that leadership is not defined by titles, but by courage and service to others. Drawing from her own story of perseverance and advocacy, she urged the Haitian community to “step boldly into rooms where decisions are made, not just to be present, but to lead with purpose.” Her words resonated deeply, inspiring thunderous applause and renewed determination across the ballroom.
Honoring Excellence – The 2025 Haitian American Young Professional Awards
The 6th Annual Haitian American Young Professional Awards Gala celebrated 25 exceptional finalists who represent the next generation of Haitian American excellence — professionals, entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers whose work continues to uplift and inspire communities across the nation. Ten outstanding individuals were honored as category winners, including Dr. Sophia Bellegarde and Daphnee Anne Sainvil (Haitian American Young Professionals of the Year), Claire Emmanuella Salomon and Martine Gordon (Young Citizens of the Year), Royale L’Radin and Rachelle Alexandre (Young Influencers of the Year), Jadinah N. Gustave, Esq. and Joanna N. Edwards (Young Entrepreneurs of the Year), and Jethro Dely and Dr. Ganaelle Joseph-Senatus (Young Leaders of the Year). Their achievements reflect the unwavering spirit of innovation, leadership, and cultural pride that define the Haitian American experience.
During the Gala, Regine Etienne, Consul General of Haiti in Boston, took the stage to present the prestigious Toussaint Louverture and Patriotic Awards to two distinguished Haitian leaders, Wilner Auguste and his wife Marie Auguste. The couple was honored for their decades of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Haitian community in Massachusetts. Their recognition symbolized the enduring spirit of patriotism, unity, and excellence that continues to uplift and inspire the Haitian diaspora.
Looking Ahead with Hope
The Inaugural Haitian American Business Summit was more than an event — it was a declaration of unity, resilience, and self-determination. It ignited a new era for Haitian professionals and entrepreneurs across the diaspora.
As Dr. Hans Patrick Domercant eloquently said in his Gala speech:
“These past few years have reminded us that no matter how successful or connected we are, when push comes to shove, we are all Haitians living in a foreign land.
And if we’re going to change our story — we must do it together.”
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Clifford
November 11, 2025Congratulations on the successful event! Proud of your work!
Oreste Renel Joseph
November 11, 2025Magnificent event and congratulations to you all!