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Near the powerful yet destructive floods of the 15-mile-long Jean-Rabel River, in an otherwise tranquil Haiti’s Northwest department village, Lenise Toussaint was born on August 30, 1915. Affectionately known as Man Gabo, a Creole nickname short for Madame Gabriel, her life began just one month and two days after the first U.S. military invasion of Haiti. Her 109 remarkable years are a testament to her love for life, profound wisdom, and an enduring vitality that transcends time.
Despite being nearly 11 decades old, Lenise remains mentally and physically robust, astonishing those around her, including her doctors.
Born Lenise Harris, she grew up amidst the magnificent landscape stretching from Jean-Rabel Town to Port-à-l’Ecu. This northwest municipality, where the extraordinary woman, the goddess for many, would live an exceptional life, is nestled along the North Atlantic coast, boasting secluded, scenic beaches and verdant mountaintops—as high as 3,000 feet. The area is characterized by two watersheds: the Jean-Rabel River (145 km²) west of Tapion Mount and the Catinette River (150 km²) east of the same mountain.
Lenise’s life is interwoven with love and community well-being. She spent her childhood, youth, and much of her adult life in this region, known for its agricultural landscape, artisanal richness, and vibrant community life. Surrounded by lush greenery, she developed a deep connection with nature early on. Her days were filled with farming, raising livestock, and learning the importance of cultivating and protecting the land.
“I have developed a deep relationship with nature, and I cherished the environment,” the centenarian joyfully says during a conversation with The Haitian Times.
As a child, Lenise would accompany her family to the fields, where they grew various crops. This hands-on experience not only taught her farming skills but also instilled in her a profound appreciation for the earth’s bounty.
“I learned to recognize the cycles of nature, understand when to plant and harvest, and nurture the soil to yield the best produce,” Lenise says.
This early exposure to agriculture laid the foundation for her lifelong commitment to sustainable farming practices.
In her youth, Lenise expanded her interests beyond traditional farming. She became involved in artisan work, creating handmade crafts that reflected the cultural heritage of her community. This artistic expression allowed her to connect with her roots and share her culture with others. Through her crafts, she also found a way to support her family financially, demonstrating her resourcefulness and creativity.
Man Gabo also discovered the healing properties of local herbs.
“We did not have doctors to depend on,” she recounts.
“I had to learn from elders about the medicinal uses of various plants, often used to treat common ailments. This knowledge became vital to my life as I started incorporating various herbal remedies into my daily routine.”
She not only mastered the medicinal values of various plants and herbs but also generously shared this knowledge with others, fostering community wellness.
Lenise was married to the late Gabriel Toussaint until his death in March 1998, in his early 80s. While her husband was revered in the coastal community of Jean-Rabel, Man Gabo carved her own legacy. She is seen as a role-model farmer, hat designer, herbalist, and philanthropist. Today, she still owns acres of land and livestock back home, entrusting community members to care for them and benefit from them.
Living in East Norriton, Pennsylvania, with her daughter, Odette Carter, and her granddaughter, Ermide O. Nicolas, Lenise divides her time between Jean-Rabel, Port-au-Prince, and the United States. Her family—a tapestry of six children, of whom only Carter, a successful travel nurse, is still living—along with 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, embodies the values she has instilled: education, perseverance, and unity.
Despite being illiterate, Lenise ensured her children received a solid education. One of her sons, Roland Toussaint, rose to prominence as a congressman, presidential speechwriter, author, and professor, earning a reputation as one of Haiti’s brightest minds.
Recognized as a master healer, Grandma Lenise uses herbal medicine to maintain her health and well-being, inspiring both her family and community. Her significant contributions have earned her a special congressional resolution from U.S. Representative Madeleine Dean of Pennsylvania’s 4th Congressional District.
In her honor, an endowment account has been established through Ayiti Community Trust (ACT)—a nonprofit building the first transnational permanent endowment fund to sustainably invest in communities across Haiti, such as Bombardopolis and Jean-Rabel in the northwest. This fund will finance vital agriculture and socio-economic development projects, ensuring Lenise’s vision for a thriving community continues to flourish.
“ More than anything, I mind my business, respect everyone, keep smiling, use herbal medicine, and always support people in my community.”
Lenise Toussaint, a centenarian from Jean-Rabel, Northwest of Haiti
“By investing in sustainable agricultural practices and socio-economic initiatives, the fund aims to empower local communities, enhance food security, and stimulate economic growth,” said Lenise’s grandson, Ulysse Toussaint.
“The endowment honors Granny’s lifelong dedication to her community and provides a lasting impact, fostering development and socio-economic sustainability for future generations.”
Additionally, Ulysse Toussaint honors his grandmother’s legacy through his fruit and beverage company, pHresKoo, which has created “Lenise Lemonade,” a flavor named after her.
“This flavor symbolizes her zest for life and the sweetness she brings to others,” grandson Toussaint said.
Every year, on Aug. 30, Lenise celebrates her birthday with the simple wish to continue living longer. “I love life,” she says with a twinkle in her eye. Her secret to longevity lies in her love for life, cheerful demeanor, and commitment to peace and harmony. She believes nature holds the key to well-being, a belief that has kept her vibrant.
“My secret to longevity is not found in any mystical formula but primarily in my unwavering love for life, cheerful demeanor, and commitment to maintaining peace and harmony with everyone I encounter,” she insists.
“More than anything, I mind my own business, respect everyone, keep smiling, use herbal medicine, and always support people in my community.”
Lenise’s story is not just one of personal triumph but a reflection of Haiti’s rich cultural heritage. As she happily moves toward her 110th birthday, Grandma Toussaint remains an inspiration, a living reminder that age is but a number when one’s heart is filled with love and laughter.
Less than two years ago, Lenise’s resilience was tested when she underwent a hip replacement after an accidental injury. Despite the procedure’s challenges, she approached recovery with determination, regaining strength and mobility and continuing to inspire those around her.
She also survived the catastrophic 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Lenise’s composure and courage comforted others, and her enduring spirit shone through.
The centenarian’s journey is a testament to the power of love, harmony, and an unwavering smile. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come. She remains a living legend. Her story is a beautiful reminder that one of the secrets to longevity also lies in joyful facial expressions despite the disappointments life often brings our way.
The post The secrets to longevity from a Haitian centenarian | PROFILE appeared first on The Haitian Times.
