I was born and raised in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. I immigrated to the states at the age of 14 to reunite with my parents. It was a bittersweet transition that left me with excruciating feelings of nostalgia. Nonetheless, I remained convinced that I would eventually adapt and thrive.
“Education is the key to a prosperous life; stay in school no matter what!” That’s the leit motif my parents have been uttering all my life. Their advice revealed to be tremendously instrumental.
The challenges I encountered as I navigated the then new American culture and language could not set hurdles to my determination to excel throughout high school. I graduated with high honors. My performance earned me a full scholarship to Tennessee State University where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering.
There is a personal story being my affinity for engineering. I was inspired by my late uncle, Arnold Castille. Uncle Castille was a self- taught construction foreman with a passion for good deeds.
Helping disenfranchised children and their families with food and tuitions became one of his favorite hobbies.
When I turned eight, I told uncle Castille about my desire to emulate his character in my adult life. His somewhat familiar and humble reaction moves me till this day- “You have an opportunity I was not dealt with. If you stay in school, you will be better than me, and you will surpass my accomplishments.” Rest in Peace Uncle Castille!
When I’m not donning my hard hat and boots as an engineer, I enjoy volunteering and philanthropic activities. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of activities and organizations I am affiliated with- Nashville Habitat for Humanity; Sophomore Mentorship Program; Peer Counsel Mentor; NSBE Arkansas Alumni Extension Chaplin; Advisor and Public Relations Director, A Little Piece of Heaven Foundation; Haitian Organization for Health Services; Advocate for Go Red for Women; Young Adult Mentorship; May Town Scholar; College of Engineering ASCE President; Organization for Developing Leadership (ODL); Salsa Toastmasters.
My goal is to become the best I can be while positively inspiring others to dream big. As a woman of integrity and character, holding the title of Miss Haiti International US is more about leadership than notoriety. I hope to be able to play my part and help make Haiti a better place to visit and live– one where people are valued and accepted for who they are.
My life has been filled with privileges, joy and love. I have learned that it is what you make of it.
