The Importance of Employment
A word from Buchman Laguerre, Lakou’s Media Producer and Program Coordinator
I like to repeat this phrase a lot, “Work is freedom”.
Poverty is widespread throughout Haiti, with 70% of the population living on less than $2 per day and 50% on less than $1 per day. Being employed at Lakou makes me proud, because I am helping my country and I have stability in my life.
Having a job in Haiti allows me to contribute to the country's economy by paying taxes and spending that salary on local goods and services, which stimulates economic growth and creates additional jobs.
As Lakou’s Communication Coordinator in Haiti, I document everything we do down in Haiti. Through photos and video, I help showcase how Lakou's work significantly impacts the Haitian community. I help our supporters visually see the value of their continued support of our training program.
When I’m in the office, and not taking pictures, I help coordinate the school with our director, Ken Biddington. I arrange the classes, take care of the schedule, and work with the teachers to help implement the new curriculum. I also translate documents from French or English to Creole to better facilitate understanding for the participants in the classroom.
Each day I show up for work, I feel that I am making a positive difference in my country. I continue to learn and grow with respect and humility, and I believe that, by working hard together towards our goals, we can build a stronger Haiti.
Travay fèm santim vivan! Travay rann mwen fyè!
Ak travay nou tout gen opòtinite pou nou yon bon sitwayen pou peyi n
Work makes me feel alive! Work makes me proud!
With work, we all have the opportunity to be a good citizen for our country.