Haiti at the Super Bowl: A conversation with a Haitian American sporting events pro

In the days after Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX halftime show made news for its focus on representation and the Americas, The Haitian Times caught up with someone who was on the field where it all happened: Jennifer Phanord, a Haitian American events operations professional.

While millions watched the Bad Bunny spectacular from their screens, Phanord worked as part of the team making it happen in real time — moving with precision, discipline and pride. Her presence on the field highlights the quiet, yet powerful contributions of Haitian professionals working behind the scenes everywhere, including some of the world’s largest stages.

Here’s an excerpt of the conversation, lightly edited for length.

The Haitian Times: What was your specific role on the Super Bowl production team? 

Jennifer Phanord: The halftime show depends entirely on the people who make everything move, and I was fortunate to be one of them.

As a Field Team Member (FTM) for the Super Bowl LX halftime show, I was one of 13 people assigned to Cart 1, led by a cart leader who trained us to move as a single unit. We learned and rehearsed building the stage in under 10 minutes. 

THT: How else have you contributed to the experience?

Phanord: Before the game, I served as a team lead for a NIKE x Champs Super Bowl activation in San Francisco. I was the primary liaison between the client, onsite partners and staffing team to ensure everything ran smoothly across both days. 

I also volunteered with HBCU Endzone at the NFL Super Bowl Experience, assisting with fan engagement and photography. Every role, whether technical, operational or community-based, played a part in shaping the larger experience.

THT: How does being Haitian shape the way you move through your career? 

Phanord: Being Haitian is a way of life. Growing up in a Haitian household meant learning responsibility early: Washing dishes, sweeping floors, keeping things in order. Those lessons followed me into my professional life. I take pride in clean setups, efficient breakdowns and making sure the workspace reflects excellence. 

But it’s deeper than organization. Haitians are bold. Our history is rooted in resilience, and that resilience shapes how I show up. I am never afraid to ask necessary questions or fully own the role I’m given. I make sure the team is aligned and contributing to the execution of large-scale events.

Overall, I’d say my roots keep me grounded, and I draw from the wisdom of my family to create 

experiences that leave colleagues and fans inspired. 

THT: In many Haitian households, traditional careers are often encouraged over others. How did your parents respond to your path? 

Phanord: I’m grateful my parents were supportive when I chose to pursue a degree in sport management, even when I wasn’t sure it was a “real” degree at first. I was exposed to the sports industry as a teenager and fell in love with the behind-the-scenes workings that make events successful. Whether operating the game clock or filling players’ water bottles, I understood that every role mattered. 

Today, as I work on my seventh Super Bowl, my parents are incredibly proud. 

THT: How did it feel actually being there? 

Phanord: Standing on that field with my Haitian flag by my side gave me chills. Without their [my parents] support, I would not be here. 

Being bold and believing in my dream opened doors I never imagined.

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