For over three decades, Fanm Deside has worked to support Haitian women in the South of Haiti by advocating for violence survivors, promoting financial independence, and providing education and training..
A group of women participating in a training program offered by Fanm Deside in Jacmel, Haiti. Photo by Reginald Louissaint.
In the summer of 2021, a devastating earthquake followed by a destructive hurricane struck southern Haiti, leaving Marline Joseph, a 37-year-old mother of three, unemployed and struggling to rebuild her life after her home collapsed. In the midst of this despair, Marline found a ray of hope in organizations like Fanm Deside (Women Decide).
Marline reached out to Fanm Deside for help, and the organization responded by offering her vital financial assistance. “The money they provided allowed me to buy food and maintain my household during these difficult times,” she says with a sense of relief and gratitude.
A group of women attending a training program offered by Fanm Deside, Nathalie Cadet, Administrator of Fanm Deside | photo by Reginald Louissaint
With a grant from the FOKAL-Haiti Relief Fund after the 2021 hurricane, Fanm Deside implemented a program that benefited 160 women, some of whom received financial assistance to create economic activities. “We don’t just hand them cash, says Nathalie, we actually show them how to make the most of it. We also promote this cool thing called mutual solidarity, where they learn to save some of their earnings. It’s not just about benefiting the women themselves, but it also has a positive impact on their entire families.”
Education is an important part in what Fanm Deside is doing. In addition to assisting in paying school tuition fees for some women, the organization offers various training programs designed to enhance personal development and empower women to make positive changes in their communities.
Marline has been an active participant in the organization’s activities, including culinary workshops and literacy training, for the past three years. She speaks proudly of her expertise in traditional Haitian cuisine: “I can make ginger powder, grated ginger, ‘pomad’, ‘kremas’, and even coffee and chocolate. […] I have acquired all these skills through Fanm Deside‘s programs.”
The vision for the women in Haiti
When asked about her vision for the future of women in Haiti, Marline emphasizes the need for respect and equality in the country. She dreams of a society where women’s rights are recognized and where gender equality is not just a concept, but a reality. Marie-Ange echoes these sentiments and stresses the importance of women’s participation in politics: “Women must have a seat at the table and actively participate in decision-making processes because their contribution is crucial.” Support our efforts to empower women in Haiti