Haitian entrepreneurs fuse style, culture and social impact

PORT-AU-PRINCE — Under the white tents of the municipal palace courtyard in Delmas, twin sisters Loodjy and Loodmya Pierre stood proudly beside rows of handcrafted sandals glistening with pearls. Their creations, a tribute to Haitian identity, were among the many offerings showcased at the 5th edition of Expo Jeunes on June 14.

“I can say that the pearl sandal is meant to be a part of who we are,” Loodjy told The Haitian Times, highlighting the cultural dimension of her creations. “It’s an artisanal and rural sandal that represents us.”

Organized without government support, the annual fair offers young Haitian artisans, creators, writers and entrepreneurs a rare platform to display their talent, connect with buyers, and imagine futures shaped by creativity and resilience. This year, nearly 100 participants set up shop offering everything from handmade goods to natural cosmetics.

For the Pierre sisters, founders of LM Agency, which provides makeup, cosmetology, and event planning services, Expo Jeunes is more than an event. It’s a statement of purpose.

“For me, it’s an event that allows young entrepreneurs to promote themselves and their businesses,” says Loodjy. “I’m truly grateful to take part. I feel proud.”

In the courtyard, the festive air was unmistakable. Families with their children, couples hand in hand, wandered through booths, chatting with artisans, sampling food, dancing, and buying everything from snacks to art. The energy was defiant—a counter to the insecurity and fear gripping the capital and some of its regions.

In one corner, a child laughed as their face was painted with flowers; in another, a young couple posed for a photo with matching bracelets that spelled out “Haiti.”

Beyond pearl-studded sandals, guests discovered hand-painted market bags, Haitian-style apparel, handcrafted jewelry, and bracelets proudly bearing the name of Haiti.

The celebration extended across the grounds, offering even more to explore: floral face and hand painting, plant-based hair oils, original artwork, roasted peanuts, chanm chanm—a crunchy roasted corn snack often mixed with sugar or peanuts—crispy chips, and vibrant cocktails. Each booth added a burst of creativity and joy to the day.

Among the stands was “Le Crochet en Folie,” a business founded by three friends who handcraft crochet ready-to-wear items ranging from hats to beach suits, bralettes to skirts and shorts, and hair accessories.

“We make everything with our own hands, without importing from abroad to resell in Haiti,” explained Chloé Lescot. 

“Today’s event means so much to us. As young and aspiring entrepreneurs, it encourages us and others to try their ventures and eventually launch their own businesses.”

Nearby, Lenz “GidophArt” Dagrin worked his paintbrush across hand-painted bags while inviting children, one at a time, to sit for live art sessions. His booth became a haven of joy and color, a relief amid uncertainty in the streets

These moments of laughter, connection, and creation are the essence of Expo Jeunes. In a fragile national climate, the fair reminds the artists and patrons that their culture and creativity are not just forms of expression, but tools of survival and hope.

The Pierre twins, along with the women of Crochet en Folie, say they understand the importance of continuing to create and resist, even when the odds feel stacked against them. Their presence at Expo Jeunes was a quiet declaration of hope—a message to others who may feel everything is lost.

“It’s not easy, but what matters is that we didn’t just sit back and do nothing,” Pierre added. “We tried to do whatever little we could to keep moving forward. We can’t simply sit around watching the situation in the country.”

“Operating a small business in Haiti today is undeniably stressful,” Lescot said. But the team’s determination—fueled by personal ambition and the encouragement of their community—has helped them stay committed to their work, despite the daily pressures of violence and instability.

“Our will and our talent are gifts from God. So it’s not because of the country’s situation that we’re going to let ourselves feel discouraged. On the contrary, we feel even more driven,” added Lescot.

Below are more images capturing the atmosphere of the Expo Jeune exhibition. 

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