Against all odds

Toussaint Louverture fighting the French in Saint-Domingue, 19th-century engraving © Getty Images.

It was against all odds that Haiti came into existence, that it abolished slavery during a period when it generated more wealth than most other states, and claimed its sovereignty from one of history’s most notorious military leaders. It is against all odds that the victors’ descendants are some of the world’s most celebrated artists, designers, authors, musicians, athletes, and chefs. It is against all odds that many survive in a nation that suffers so much; yet, it is also astonishing that hundreds of years after the nation’s glorious revolution, it languishes economically behind so many of its neighbors, many of which were liberated from their colonial powers after Haiti’s remarkable Declaration of Independence. The burdensome weight of its “independence debt” paid to France, a fee imposed for economic damages during the revolution, has directly and indirectly impacted so much of the nation’s economic development. Since its remarkable independence, the odds have been stacked against the former colony.

The current realities of the country’s political and economic turmoil no longer fill the global North’s headlines; yet, the nation faces one of its most concerning crises since its founding. Its narrative of struggle is no longer the draw it once was when Haiti, a nation cursed by the blessing of its NGO class, amassed global attention after its horrific 2010 earthquake. Fifteen years later, today’s data worryingly points down a still difficult path;

• Haiti’s youth make up over 50% of the population under 25.

• 30–50% of armed gang members are children.

• 80% of children never reach secondary school.

It seems the odds are against Haitians.

However, we refuse to accept these realities as permanent.

L’Ouverture Academy stands as a selective, holistic program combining academics, soccer, and character development to prepare Haitian youth for academic and professional opportunities. It strives to be a catalyst for further opportunities and development, a beacon for Haitians abroad, and a lamppost for those at home on how potential can transform a society. 

Designer's rendition of the vision and based on other global Academy's models.

L’Ouverture Academy recognizes that talent is ubiquitous, existing in all populations and plights, and is aware that Haiti’s sustained economic challenges have resulted in an inevitable brain and talent drain, as many seek opportunities beyond national borders. Yet, it is believed that talent should be nurtured and given equitable access to resources that can prepare it to fulfill its full potential.

This is the dream we are building at L’Ouverture Academy, one that is against all odds. It is rooted in multilingual education that embraces Haitian Kreyol. It structures academics alongside sport, mentorship, and immense cultural pride. This Academy is envisioned not just to meet needs, but to ignite potential.

We named the Academy after Toussaint L’Ouverture to honor Haiti’s legacy of resilience, leadership, and education—and to inspire youth to walk proudly in its tradition. Captured in 1802 during the revolution, L’Ouverture is quoted saying, “In overthrowing me, you have cut down only the trunk of the tree of liberty; it will spring up again from the roots, for they are numerous and they are deep."

L’Ouverture led the incredible revolution, despite the many odds against him. Although not without fault and not alone, it is his legacy that is celebrated as an enduring example of how hope can be converted into action, momentum, and change. Springing forth from this, we seek to lay roots in Haiti for an Academy that can inspire and equip further generations to dream and achieve their own ambitions, contributing to an inspired renaissance of talent and investment. 

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