Haitian real estate network honors excellence, spotlights push for homeownership at first awards gala

MIAMI—- In just three years, what began as informal peer-to-peer encouragement among Haitian real estate professionals has grown into a global network focused on expanding homeownership, strengthening financial literacy and elevating Haitian leadership in an industry that shapes generational wealth.

That evolution took center stage on Dec. 21, when the Haitian Real Estate Professionals Association (HREPA) hosted its first annual awards gala in Miami, honoring Haitian professionals whose work is advancing housing access, investment and community development across the diaspora.

Founded in February 2022 by Tracy Vertus, Laurie Joseph and Kayla Revelus, HREPA was created to address longstanding barriers Haitians face in real estate—from limited access to credit and culturally competent services to underrepresentation in leadership roles. According to the organization, its mission is to promote Haitian homeownership, professional excellence and civic engagement, while building a trusted network for buyers, investors and industry professionals.

The gala marked a milestone for the association, signaling both its growth and the rising influence of Haitian professionals in real estate markets across South Florida and beyond.

Dressed in black-tie attire, guests gathered for an evening that began with a cocktail hour and red-carpet arrivals, followed by music, prayer and remarks celebrating achievement, integrity and community impact.

Haiti’s Consul General in Miami, Yverick Delerme Cyril, attended the ceremony and praised HREPA’s role in strengthening the diaspora through economic empowerment and housing stability—an issue with direct implications for immigrant families and intergenerational wealth.

The keynote address was delivered by Marcus Boereau, a real estate developer, founder and CEO of IMAR Business Group, who shared his journey from studying abroad in Taiwan and China to building an international real estate portfolio. In 2025, Boereau launched TAMAN Punta Cana, a development project valued at more than $30 million.

“It’s time for people to invest, and for real estate professionals to expand how they think,” Boereau said, urging attendees to embrace innovation, including artificial intelligence, and to look beyond traditional markets.

Throughout the evening, HREPA presented seven competitive awards recognizing excellence and impact across the industry, along with an honorary award and a Presidential Choice Award. Organizers said nominees were evaluated based on leadership, vision and measurable community impact.

Award recipients included:

• Investor of the Year: Midlaine Richaed-Pean
• Rising Star: Chardeline Vigne

• Brokerage of the Year — The Nice Agent company, founded by Carl Christian
• Top Loan Officer: Diderdot Saintilma
• Top Real Estate Agent: Harry Jean Baptiste

The ceremony concluded with a live konpa performance, underscoring the cultural pride woven throughout the evening.

For many attendees, the gala represented more than a celebration—it reflected a broader push to spotlight Haitian leadership in sectors critical to economic stability and wealth creation.

As housing affordability and access remain pressing challenges for Haitian families in the United States, organizations like HREPA are positioning themselves as platforms for advocacy, education and professional accountability.

The following are some images from the HREPA’s inaugural awards ceremony:

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