My family emigrated from Haiti to the US a year before the 9/11 attacks and began our journey toward naturalization. It took eight years until I became an American citizen—one of the greatest gifts my mom could’ve given me. It opened so many doors and allowed me to move through America easily as a first-generation immigrant.
Citizenship gave me a sense of permanency, the feeling of home. But that feeling wasn’t always empowering for me. Growing up in New York City’s public housing, I quickly learned how stereotypes based on my address shaped people’s perceptions and expectations of me. I used to feel ashamed of where I lived due to negative labels.
Now I feel proud because I took a risk: instead of leaving my community, I dedicated myself to it and its diversity. I’m now Program Manager for the Public Housing Community Fund, where I oversee the NYC Housing Authority’s (NYCHA) Youth Tech Corps program. This 10-week pilot program has highlighted the critical need for digital connectivity among NYCHA residents, particularly bridging the gap between older and younger generations. Our program model envisions older resident leaders collaborating with younger participants on projects that engage residents and improve community dynamics.
When we hosted a press event where residents, program participants, and stakeholders came together, witnessing the usually reserved participants take charge and express their enthusiasm was a true highlight for me. I could tell they felt at home. When we hosted a press event where residents, program participants, and stakeholders came together, witnessing the normally reserved participants take charge and express their enthusiasm was a true highlight for me. I could tell they felt at home.
Last fall, New Profit invited me to The Well conference as an emerging leader. This was a great honor for me as an alum of New Profit’s grantee partner Basta, which helped me become a first-generation college graduate. Being present in spaces like The Well holds profound significance for me, as I recognize both the weight of the opportunity and the privilege of occupying these rooms and connecting with like-minded peers.