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Stephany is currently working for the Inter-American Institute
for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) as the Assistant of
Coordination for the Pro-Huerta program in Haiti, which is
providing training and support to increase food production in
family, school and community organic vegetable gardens to
promote food security in Haiti. Stephany tracks the project,
which is benefiting 11,000 families, writes reports on the
activities and results and also spends time in the communities,
providing support to the Pro-Huerta team and beneficiaries.
She feels that EARTH has given her the skills to make a
difference in Haiti, remarking: “The education at EARTH—it’s a
package. Everything fits together. I have a toolbox and can pull
the right tool. I feel prepared.”
Rachelle Chery, a Rural Development Specialist at the IICAOffice
in Haiti notes that Stephany “exhibits a certain professional
maturity, rare nowadays from young professionals.” Even still,
the job market in Haiti is highly competitive and Stephany
recognizes that she will need additional training if she wants to
keep growing professionally.
Stephany’s brother, Gregory, begins his studies at EARTH in 2011,
thanks to a scholarship he received from the Open Society
Foundations. After he graduates, they plan to start a business
together in Haiti, but Stephany is quick to caution, “Starting a
business is not going to happen overnight. There are a lot of
factors to consider to do something sustainable. We need to do
studies and overcome many challenges.”
In the meantime, Stephany is realistic about achieving well-being in
Haiti, “Above all else, we need to understand our weaknesses and
take advantage of our strengths. What I am doing now is just one
factor. There are somany needs, but I knowthat I can contribute.”
Stephany’s studies at EARTH were made possible thanks to a
scholarship provided by the Moore Foundation, Mr. and Mrs.
Joseph M. Stewart, and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Miller Jr.
“I would like to warmly thank my donors for the opportunity they
gave me to have this unique experience at EARTH.”
Stephany Laforest
Stephany visits a Prohuerta garden in Haiti.
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