School Sponsorship program
Zanmi Lakay’s Education Fund is a School Scholarship Program.
We are working to elevate a community of street children
by giving them an education to break the cycle of life
that has them living on the streets. This simple purpose
of our Education Fund is to give children the chance to go to school,
and for young adults to finish their education or receive
special training that would otherwise not have the possibility.
Zanmi Lakay entrepreneurship programs
Beyond teaching photography, the goal of our program is to empower students
to think entrepreneurial by identifying opportunities and challenging assumptions.
As students progress through our program, students grow increasingly comfortable
seeing problems through the lens of possibility.
During my first trip to Haiti in 1997, I lived at Lafanmi Selavi, a home created for street children by Jean-Bertrand Aristide in 1986 when he was still a parish priest. Close to 500 children found their way to Lafanmi Selavi for a variety of reasons. Some were orphans or abandoned, others had been abused, many families could not afford to take care of their kids, and many were restaveks or child slaves. I took their pictures and got to know them during the years I worked on my documentary project and held Photography Workshops.
When Lafanmi Selavi closed in 2000, many children no longer had the opportunity to go to school, a place to sleep, food and clothing, sports, music, art, or a family that their former home provided. Street life was harsh, miserable, and dangerous and they needed help. They wanted to go to school, a place to live, to be safe, and to contribute to society. Zanmi Lakay was created because of the growing needs of street children in Haiti, and the seed was the Photography Workshops. My inspiration was the book, Shooting Back, a successful project founded by Jim Hubbard while he was working with homeless children in Washington D.C.
Haiti has been plagued by political violence for most of its history. In the context of extreme economic and political instability, the vulnerability of children rises significantly.
-Haiti is almost exactly the same size as Massachusetts, with a population of over eight million people; Massachusetts has 6.4 million. But per capita income in Haiti is under $400, compared to nearly $42,000 in Massachusetts.
-Haiti’s early history is slavery, succeeded almost continuously by even more brutal tyranny. As a result, 80% of Haitians live in abject poverty, at least 60% are illiterate, and two thirds have no formal employment.
-Over forty percent of the population is under the age of 15. According to UNICEF, more than 173,000 Haitian children are domestic workers (restaveks), 3,000 have been trafficked in the Dominican Republic, and 200,000 have lost one or both parents to AIDS.
-Many schools charge tuition, plus the costs of books, uniforms, food, and transportation. There are small group homes in Port-au-Prince, as well as food programs, and various NGOs that are helping street children. But the number of street children is estimated at 9,000-250,000, and obviously assistance is pitifully inadequate.
If the children of Haiti have no future, neither does their country. Our purpose is to give some of those children a chance. We hope others who share their hemisphere will help us.
Jennifer Pantaléon
Executive Director, Founder
The people, culture, poverty, and violence of Haiti are all attractive to photographers. Countless international photojournalists go to Haiti, mostly during times of political upheaval, and through them the media show the world a limited view of Haiti. Most of the images we see from Haiti are violent, but there is also happiness, beauty and especially pride. I wanted to create an outlet for young Haitians to develop skills to document their country's continuing history and its daily life from their own perspectives.
During my first trip to Haiti in January 1997, while documenting a home for street youth, I began the Photography Workshops. My love of photography was what I had to give the children. Hundreds of them were living at Lafanmi Selavi, a home created in 1986 by Jean-Bertrand Aristide when he was still a parish priest. Some children had never had their picture taken before, most had never seen a photo of themselves, and none of them had every used a camera. An opportunity was created for kids with no resources to do something completely new, nurturing hidden talents, adding skills, and offering them a way to tell their own stories and express themselves.
At the Workshops, we teach the importance, history, and uses of photography, technical information, instruction in the operation of a 35mm camera, and encourage visits from professional photographers. The fun has included an amazing pinhole camera workshop put together by visiting San Francisco photographer Matthew Millman, outdoor slideshows, a permanent exhibit in Port-au-Prince, and students receive income from sales of their prints and postcards. Just to hold a camera is an exciting experience. The kids have worked individually and in groups using photography to interact with their community from a different perspective.
In 2004 and 2005, our Photography Workshops thrived at Caritas St. Antoine, a small home for street children in Port-au-Prince. Twenty students went on field trips, photograms were created in a makeshift darkroom, Haitian photojournalist Evens Sanon presented his story of becoming a professional, and two U.S. photojournalists visited the class with their digital cameras.
In 2007 and 2008, we went south to Jacmel working with Art Creation Foundation for Children (ACFFC), a nonprofit that cares for 50 impoverished children daily providing art classes, meals, and financial support for school in a newly rented safe and secure house with enough room for a gallery. ACFFC also integrates the local artisans into their program as teachers and mentors, and the children have begun showing and selling their artwork.
Zanmi Lakay is proud to sponsor 50 children across five cities in Haiti, helping them attend school and build a brighter future. This vital work is made possible through the generosity of individual sponsors and compassionate contributors who believe in the power of education. Each child’s school fees are paid directly to their educational institution, ensuring transparency and accountability. This direct support guarantees that students can enroll and remain in school without the financial burden falling solely on their families. But tuition is only part of the story. Additional funds are provided to families to cover essential needs such as school uniforms, notebooks, pens, backpacks, transportation, exam fees, and even daily meals. These resources remove barriers that often prevent children from continuing their education. For just $300.00 per year, a sponsor can support a specific student. This contribution covers a full academic year and provides the child with everything they need to succeed. Sponsors receive regular updates, including photographs, family background, and progress reports, creating a meaningful connection between donor and student. This sponsorship is more than a donation—it’s a relationship. Many sponsors find deep fulfillment in watching their student grow, thrive, and pursue their dreams. It’s a chance to make a lasting difference in a young person’s life. In addition to student sponsorships, we welcome contributions to our general fund. These donations support our dedicated Haitian Director, who oversees daily operations with care and commitment. They also help fund our student photographers—young artists who document their communities and share their stories through powerful imagery. The general fund also allows us to provide extra support to families when emergencies arise or when additional needs surface. Whether it’s a medical expense, a housing issue, or a special opportunity, these flexible funds help us respond with compassion and speed. The deadline to sponsor a student for the upcoming school year is August 20. Meeting this deadline ensures that all fees are paid before classes begin, allowing students to start the year with confidence and dignity. There is truly nothing more important than education for these children. It opens doors, builds self-worth, and lays the foundation for a better future. For many families in Haiti, this program is the only way they can afford to keep their children in school. We invite you to be part of this life-changing effort. Whether you choose to sponsor a student, contribute to the general fund, or help spread the word, your support matters. Together, we can uplift a generation and invest in a more hopeful tomorrow.
Zanmi Lakay is committed to walking alongside Haitian youth as they grow, learn, and strive for a better future. Among those we support are 12 teenagers who have aged out of traditional children’s programs or were part of initiatives that are no longer active. These young men have been part of our extended family for years, and we’ve witnessed their resilience, intelligence, and determination firsthand. Many of these boys spent their formative years in group homes or surviving on the streets. Despite the instability and hardship they’ve faced, they’ve remained focused on their education and personal growth. They are good students—motivated, respectful, and full of potential. We believe in them, and we know that continued support can help them break the cycle of poverty and build meaningful lives. Education is the key to unlocking that future. For these teenagers, staying in school is not just a dream—it’s a lifeline. With your help, we can ensure they have the resources they need to complete their studies. The cost to sponsor all 12 students for one academic year is $3,600. This includes tuition, books, and uniforms—just $300 per student. In addition to school expenses, we provide safe housing. Two shared rooms offer these young men a stable place to live, study, and rest. The annual rent for these accommodations is $1,800, which covers basic living costs and helps create a supportive environment where they can thrive. Altogether, the total program expenses for the year amount to $5,400. This modest investment has a profound impact. It keeps 12 teenagers in school, off the streets, and on a path toward independence and success. Every dollar contributes directly to their well-being and future. We invite you to be part of this journey. Whether you choose to sponsor a student, contribute to housing costs, or donate to the general fund, your support makes a real difference. These boys are not statistics—they are artists, learners, helpers, and dreamers. With your help, they can become leaders.
We warmly invite you to come to Haiti and be part of a transformative experience. Your presence and support can make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and communities through creative, educational, and hands-on service. One of the most powerful ways to connect is by assisting in our Photography Workshops. These workshops give children the chance to express themselves through the lens of a camera, capturing their world with honesty and imagination. Volunteers help guide the sessions, encourage storytelling, and celebrate each child’s unique perspective. Beyond the workshops, we offer outreach services and field trips that bring joy, learning, and connection to children in underserved areas. Whether it’s helping organize a visit to a local landmark or supporting a mobile art activity, your involvement helps create lasting memories and build trust. Our office also welcomes volunteers who enjoy behind-the-scenes work. Tasks like data entry, updating our database, and processing orders are essential to keeping our programs running smoothly. If you’re detail-oriented and enjoy organizing, your help will be deeply appreciated. We regularly assemble Care Packages filled with school supplies, hygiene items, and small gifts. Volunteers can assist in sorting donations, packaging items, and preparing shipments. These packages bring comfort and encouragement to children and families facing hardship. If you’re based outside Haiti, you can still make a big difference. Organize a donation drive at your school, workplace, or community center. Collect items like notebooks, pencils, art supplies, or gently used clothing. Every contribution helps us reach more children with the resources they need. Hosting a Ti Maché—a small market-style event—is another creative way to support our mission. You can sell handmade goods, crafts, or baked treats, with proceeds going toward our programs. It’s a fun and festive way to raise awareness and funds. Consider curating a photo exhibit featuring images from our workshops. These exhibits can be held in libraries, galleries, schools, or even online. They showcase the talent and spirit of Haitian youth while educating viewers about their lives and dreams. We’re also open to new ideas. If you have a skill, passion, or project that could benefit our community, we’d love to hear about it. Whether it’s music, storytelling, tech support, or educational games, your creativity can spark new possibilities. Volunteering in Haiti is not just about giving—it’s about growing. You’ll build relationships, learn from resilient communities, and leave with a deeper understanding of global solidarity. It’s a journey of heart, hands, and hope. Let us know how you’d like to get involved. Whether you’re ready to travel, plan an event, or support from afar, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Organizing a slide presentation in your home, school, or community can be a powerful way to raise awareness and inspire action. These presentations offer a window into the lives of children in Haiti, highlighting both their challenges and their creativity. Many local schools have already taken part in this initiative. After viewing the slides, students and teachers alike have felt moved to organize donation drives, collecting essential items and funds to support Haitian children. These efforts have made a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need. The presentations typically include photographs taken by the children themselves, offering an authentic and deeply personal perspective. These images tell stories of resilience, hope, and everyday life in Haiti, and they often spark meaningful conversations among viewers. In addition to donation drives, some communities have gone a step further by hosting their own photography workshops. Inspired by the Haiti Street Children’s Photography Workshops, these events encourage young people to explore their own environments through the lens of a camera. Such workshops not only build technical skills but also foster empathy and global awareness. Participants learn about the power of storytelling and how photography can be used as a tool for social change. We warmly invite you to consider hosting a presentation or workshop in your own space. Whether it’s a living room gathering, a classroom event, or a community center showcase, your involvement can help amplify the voices of Haitian children. You don’t need fancy equipment or a large venue to make an impact. A simple projector, a few chairs, and a heartfelt introduction can set the stage for a transformative experience. If you’re part of a school, consider integrating the presentation into a lesson plan or assembly. Teachers have found that students respond with curiosity and compassion, often leading to student-led initiatives and creative projects. Community groups and faith-based organizations can also play a vital role. Hosting a presentation during a regular meeting or special event can galvanize members to support outreach efforts or contribute to ongoing campaigns. We encourage you to think creatively. Could your local library host a photo exhibit? Might your youth group organize a fundraiser? Could your book club dedicate a session to discussing global childhood experiences? Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger movement of care and solidarity. By sharing these stories and images, you help build bridges between communities and foster a deeper understanding of our shared humanity. We’re here to support you with materials, guidance, and encouragement. If you have an idea or need help getting started, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can create meaningful experiences that uplift and empower.
Zanmi Lakay is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means all donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Your support not only helps us fulfill our mission—it also provides you with a meaningful way to give back while receiving a tax benefit. Every contribution we receive goes directly toward sustaining and expanding our core programs. These include our Education Fund, which provides tuition, supplies, and support for Haitian students; our Outreach Program, which delivers care packages, field trips, and essential services to children and families; and our Photography Workshops, which empower youth to tell their stories through art and creativity. Your donation helps us cover school fees, purchase uniforms and books, maintain safe housing for teens, and support our dedicated Haitian staff. It also allows us to respond to urgent needs and offer extras that bring joy and dignity to the children we serve. Giving is easy and secure. You can donate online through PayPal, which allows for one-time or recurring contributions. If you prefer to send a check, please make it payable to Zanmi Lakay and mail it to: Zanmi Lakay 153 Montecito Avenue Pacifica, CA 94044 No gift is too small. Every dollar helps us continue our work and reach more children with the support they need to thrive. Thank you for being part of our community and for believing in the power of education, outreach, and creative expression.
- A group of 10 international volunteers including professional photographers, translators, and assistants from the U.S., France, and Haiti led this year’s Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto.
- 30 photojournalism students from Cite Soleil and Jacmel, including two enthusiastic new students, shot daily life assignments in and around Jacmel along with a maternity clinic, recycling business, a rally by Christians against homosexuality in Haiti, weddings, workers, market life, fire fighters, the local DJ, barbershops, Vodou, and sports.
- Every student received a badge and camera, and advanced students got a Press Pass. Each year a volunteer takes new portraits of each student, and once again Kuba took the lead on arranging the most beautiful Group Shot ever!
- Our star student, Fedno Lubin, was presented with a new (used) Nikon D200, two lenses, an awesome new camera bag, and accessories (donated by over four generous folks) for his hard work during the past 10 months documenting all of ACFFC’s activities, events, and mosaic mural creations. He is so happy! Now other students are stepping up and working harder knowing that they too can become photographers with real gear.
- Daily one on one editing sessions with team leaders. Our critiques were more challenging for the students this year and many had to re-shoot their assignments. They let us know how much they appreciated us pushing them and always showed up with better images. As educators, we love that!
- Local portrait studio owner, M. Dennis, visited our class to talk about business and how photography has enriched his life. He invited students to check out his studio, and collaboration will continue.
- Blogging workshop led by Josh Curry that culminated in www.JacmelNewsBlog.com. All content is by our students.
- Kristin Adair coached a basics and review session for beginning and newer students.
- Volunteers donated books and magazines creating a Photography section in ACFFC’s new library.
- Students photographed locals willing to pose during two outdoor studio portrait sessions at Toussaint Louverture Parc. Set up included studio backdrop, hand painted canvas backdrop by Bruno Rene and his art team, painted chairs, and reflectors. All photographers, assistants, and coordinators were students.
- Business development class for advanced students held by Guy Pantaléon with assistance by Vladimir Simeon for two hours midday for three days. It was the first time students took a final exam on a computer. Passing students received a certificate during our opening night exhibition reception. For the two that didn’t pass, they still did well and we now know what help they need.
- Portrait lighting class in an indoor photo studio led by Jakub (Kuba) Mosur. Students set up backdrop, light stands, flash, umbrellas and took portraits of ACFFC kitchen staff. There were also mini practice sessions throughout the week where students learned more about using reflectors – an important tool considering that electricity isn’t always available.
- Every student filled out a short questionnaire so we can better assess future needs and interests.
- This year our “Favorite Photo” discussion was again a great success. During an afternoon at the Hotel Cyvadier Plage conference center, students chose their favorite photos and talked about them in front of the entire group. Many brought their notebooks where they had written names, ages, and information about their subjects. Topics and Q&A included small business, stories about firefighters and hard workers, good light, difficult choices, personal stories about subjects and family, and a recycling discussion with guest Sarah Wallace.
We put together a Wish List of items we need to keep our programs running: tax-deductible donations for food, shelter, school and special training fees as well as other living expenses for street children, and for airline luggage fees to get donations to Haiti. We also seek donations for Care Bag supplies: toothbrushes, large toothpaste, soap, travel size shampoo and conditioners, new adult size t-shirts (no x-large), afro combs, Vitamin C candy, EmergenC vitamin packets, small notebooks, pens, decks of cards, mini dominos, heavy duty gallon freezer Ziplock baggies, new make-up and nail polish, beach balls, and colored chalk.
Zanmi Lakay is now soliciting longer term, more generous donations for our 2nd Annual Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto – a Summer Photo Camp for Children and a Community Exhibition in Jacmel, July 2012. Items needed include: digital cameras, AA Batteries (qty200), 1 GB SD cards for cameras, two external hard drives, ink cartridges for Epson Picture Mate 4×6 printers (2 each-T557 and PM260/200 series picture packs), an Epson Workforce 1100 Printer and printer ink, photo paper (150 sheets: Brilliant Supreme Matte Paper – 13″ x 19″ – Photo Inkjet Professional Digital Media Paper).
- Sponsor a youth from Cité Soleil to attend our Photo Camp! If we get enough sponsors, 10 of our Cité Soleil photo students will travel with us to Jacmel. $300 covers each student’s food, lodging and transportation. – 9 sponsored
- 50 Working Digital Point and Shoot Cameras (we’ll take dslr’s too!) – It looks like we’ll have enough cameras!!
- 40 SD 2 gig+ cards and 10 Flash 1gig+ cards for cameras - 50 SD cards plus extras!
- At least 6 good working Laptops
- 4 External Hard Drives
- 2 Thumb Drives – we have received 2 thumb drives
- 1 more Epson Workforce Inkjet Printer - we have 2 large format printers (WF 1100 & WF 7010)
- 20 sets each Ink Cartridges
- 250 sheets of premium matte or lustre inkjet 13″ x 19″ heavyweight Photographic Paper
- 2 Ink Cartridges for each small donated Epson Printer: Epson PM 260 and an Epson PM 650
- 200 AA Batteries for cameras
- Museum Putty to hang prints and caption cards
- 50 compact Reporting Notebooks and Pens for students.
Our third annual Photo Camp for Haitian Youth is July 26 – August 6, 2013!
Once again, a great team of volunteer photographers and assistants will work side by side with our Haitian students for this collaborative community project in Jacmel. This year we are simplifying the schedule and downsizing a bit to concentrate on individual technical training, more intensive photography instruction, and small business development by creating a Portrait Studio. Last year one of our older students asked us what photography can do for his life, and we’re answering him by providing ideas and guidance into how photography skills can evolve into practical employment. Fedno Lubin of ACFFC has been fulfilling assignments for his organization and Zanmi Lakay for almost a year, and our hope is that more students follow in his footsteps.
Please consider making a donation and investing in the future of these talented young photographers to help us reach our fundraising goal of $8,500.00. With your gifts and our volunteer team, we can make it happen!
We are excited to have our base camp in ACFFC’s new building in downtown Jacmel! Guy and Jennifer Pantaléon will lead the team of volunteer professional photographers and assistants including Joel Petion, Zanmi Lakay’s director in Haiti, translator Rodolph LaPointe, and ACFFC staff.
The opening night community reception at the Fosaj Art Center in Jacmel is Saturday August 3, 2013, and everyone is invited!
Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto would not happen without the generosity and expertise of our volunteers. We appreciate and love every ounce of energy and effort they give to Zanmi Lakay and our Haitian students – Thank you Kristin Adair, Joshua Curry, Maggie Evans, Jakub Mosur, Alice Rain, Amanda Peterson, Joel Pétion, and Rodolph LaPointe. You all rock! (and thanks for being so generous with your photos!)
Special thanks to Director Georges Metellus, all of the kids and our students, and the entire staff of Art Creation Foundation for Children (ACFFC) for being our longtime partners and providing love and facilities, to Kole Zepol and our students from Cité Soleil, and to Prince Luc and the Fosaj Art Center for supporting the Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto exhibition three years in a row.
It is a source of pride that we utilized local businesses for the production and efforts needed to accomplish a successful Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto. Thanks to Bazile Steverno for creating the fabulous banner that hangs across Avenue Baranquilla for the duration of our exhibition (Sept. 9), Jacub at Star Car Rental that always gives us personal service for cars and vans needed to transport our crew, and Serge – our awesome and reliable local Jacmel driver. Thanks to Christophe and the entire staff at Hotel Cyvadier Plage who took care of us providing great service and space throughout production. We love all of the talented folks who performed during our opening night reception including Amanou and his Troupe Flambeau Zel Maturin, multi-talented dancer/teacher/special assistant Papouche who performed solo and with his Explosion Dance Troupe, Rasin Travay Ayiti, and all of the drummers and dancers. Always thankful for Madame Resia, ACFFC’s top chef, who provides food for the kids, and coordinates the popcorn making for our opening night reception.
Huge thanks to our sponsors who provided sponsorship for Cité Soleil students, and materials and supplies helping to make Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto 2013 such a success! Charity4Life, Hotel Cyvadier Plage, Calumet Photographic, Clif Bar & Company, MOAB by Legion Paper, Cartridge World of San Francisco, and Ball Chain Manufacturing Co.
Heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all of our supporters who held fundraisers, donated funds, cameras, and other needed items directly or through Indiegogo. We know you dug deep and made special efforts because you believe in what we do, and honestly we couldn’t do it without you. You were with us and our students everyday in Haiti bringing Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto to life!
We thank you all, and are so proud of the achievements of our students! Jouk Li Jou!
Zanmi Lakay’s Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto 2012 was phenomenal!
This year we held our second annual Youth Photo Camp, a collaborative community project in Jacmel, where young Haitian photojournalists shoot local daily assignments, learn vital skills, tell stories from a Haitian point of view, and promote progress in their own community.
Joining us again were the staff and students of our partners Kole Zepol from Cité Soleil and Art Creation Foundation for Children (ACFFC) based in Jacmel, along with the Fosaj Art Center where our beautiful exhibition is still up through the month of August.
Seven volunteer professional photographers and two technicians came from the U.S. and worked together with our Haitian crew of seven staff and translators to teach and mentor 48 photojournalism students ages 11-23. Our base camp was at ACFFC, and we divided up into three teams, had three computer editing stations, and once again kept our trusty taptap driver Serge very busy.
During the three days of shooting their assignments in and around Jacmel of daily life including the markets, butchers, peasants, rebuilding, mechanics, street games, beaches, sports, rivers, and artisan studios, the student photographers collectively made almost 9000 digital images.
The most profound part of Jouk Li Jou this year was the special Wednesday discussion at the Hotel Cyvadier conference center where students talked about their favorite photos. (During the editing process, every student had chosen a photo that they loved or thought was important.) Images were projected on the front wall, and one by one students stood in front of the entire group, introduced themselves, talked about their work, and took questions. The discussions began simply, and gradually evolved into serious Haitian issues about sanitation, the environment, trash, farming, poverty, and employment. It was an amazing afternoon!
After all the editing and processing, 65 large prints were made for the final exhibition in the main gallery. An additional 192 images were chosen from extra daily assignments to create three large theme related collages: colors reflecting the environment (the name of each team was their color: yellow, blue, or green), self-portraits, and relationships. Two of our students, Michou Joissaint and Bruno Rene added a mirrored mosaic and special art to the self-portrait collage. We also put together a slideshow of fun outtakes and extra photos taken by students and team leaders that continuously ran during the reception.
The Exhibition Reception on July 27, 2012, at the Fosaj Art Center was a full house and all of the performers of last year were there again to entertain the crowd! It was a fabulous party with the student photojournalists all dressed up, photo subjects, family and friends, the entire Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto team, and local artisans. Included in the performances were drummers, the Gran Lakou dance troupe plus young ACFFC dancers, Vodou dancing, a solo dance by Papouche, there was a women’s theatre group, and the Zel Maturin Kanaval devils by Troupe Flambeau performed all evening. Everyone came to celebrate something beautiful. The crowd was so big we had to do an extra soda and beer run, and the kids enjoyed popcorn. Bon bagay!
We are so proud of all the students!! A huge thank you to everyone who donated time, money, expertise, supplies and equipment to make Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto such a wonderful success! Special thanks to ACFFC, Fosaj Art Center, Hotel Cyvadier, and the people of Jacmel! A standing ovation for our very hard working team of volunteers: Susan Bradley, Chip Chipman, Joshua Curry, Ethan Harte, Chemy Jean Philippe, Erin Lubin, Georges Metellus, Jakub Mosur, Papouche, Joel Petion, and Elayna Yussen!! Thanks as well to Clif Bar, Charity4Life (Jeannette, Jessica and Monika), Cartridge World of San Francisco, Ball Chain Mfg., and the Carte Blanche Gallery. This was quite a big project, and we are so grateful for all the dedicated support!!
Each student made at least one of these 65 images that were printed large for our photography exhibition at the Fosaj Art Center (and each print included a caption card with their photo, age, and translated caption). Enjoy the show!
This year we are expanding with 50 young photography students from Cité Soleil and Jacmel who will learn and work together for 10 days along with volunteer professional photographers, supporters, and Haitian staff to shoot, edit, produce, print, and then design and hang a huge photo show for a month long exhibit.
Please consider making a donation to this epic teaching and exhibit event and help us reach our fundraising goal of $8,500.00! Every little bit helps and we can’t do it without you!
Once again our base camp is Art Creation Foundation for Children (ACFFC) in Jacmel. Guy and Jennifer Pantaléon will lead Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto with an amazing team of volunteer supporters and professional photographers including Joel Petion, Zanmi Lakay’s Director in Haiti. Staff from ACFFC and Kolézepol (our partners in Cité Soleil) will be helping with translation, the students, and facilitating the project.
The opening night community reception at the Fosaj Gallery in Jacmel is Friday July 27, 2012, and everyone is invited!
Jouk Li Jou is a Haitian saying that means: we’ll never stop until the day is over, working hard to see a better life, and we’ll keep fighting to the end. Our students, their families and community, and our volunteer team are all about Jouk Li Jou no matter what happens in Haiti, and it shows in the dedication and hard work by all on this project. Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto was established to celebrate community by sharing the visual stories of daily life, and this event reflects our student’s resilience, dignity, and enduring spirit as well as talent, learned skills, and creativity.
For the first time, student photographers from Cité Soleil will meet up with students in Jacmel to spend 10 days shooting photo stories, editing, and processing their digital images with the help of volunteer professional photojournalists. The students will then print and hang their photos for an exhibition at the Fosaj Gallery, 5-7 Rue St. Ann, Jacmel. The month long show opens with a reception on Friday July 29, 2011.
This unprecedented teaching and exhibit event, called Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto will take place July 22-29, 2011, at the ACFFC building and around town in Jacmel, Haiti. Jouk Li Jou is a Haitian saying that means: we’ll never stop until the day is over, working hard to see a better life, and we’ll keep fighting to the end. Our students, their families and communities are all about Jouk Li Jou no matter what happens in Haiti, and our exhibition will reflect their resilience, dignity, and enduring spirit.
The Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto will foster the children’s photographic talents not only boosting self-esteem and teaching practical technical skills for the future, but will also inspire self-reflection and life changes empowering the young students to improve their lives. Many of these kids have never travelled out of their neighborhoods. The meeting up of students from different communities will foster both their art and socialization skills.
Zanmi Lakay’s Photography Workshop students are the best ambassadors to share and inform people about what we do. Our students are from Cité Soleil, Haiti’s largest and worst slum, and Jacmel, a poor yet beautiful historical seaside town known for its local artisans. Zanmi Lakay partners with Kolézépol in Cité Soleil, and Art Creation Foundation for Children (ACFFC) in Jacmel who will be hosting the Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto at their headquarters. These organizations provide the children school, daily meals, art classes, and community projects, as well as much needed social interaction.
Zanmi Lakay held photo workshops in both Cité Soleil and Jacmel in January and February last year for students ages 10-18. In spite of their dire living conditions right after the earthquake, the students were eager to participate in the workshops. The ability to express themselves through photography helped them cope with their trauma and process what was happening around them, but that’s not all. In February 2010, the New York Times Lens Blog published our students’ post-earthquake photographs, and Canada’s Globe and Mail hired eight students to provide photographs documenting the rebuilding of Jacmel. In addition, the students’ work was exhibited at the Palm Beach Photographic Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, at the Joan Hisaoka Healing Arts Gallery in Washington D.C., the Venice Arts Gallery in Los Angeles, and the Exposure Gallery in San Francisco.
Jennifer and Guy Pantaléon, co-founders of Zanmi Lakay, will lead Jouk Li Jou Kan Foto. Joel Pétion, Zanmi Lakay’s Director in Haiti, will assist along with the directors and staff of ACFFC and Kolézépol. A team of volunteer professional journalists will also participate to mentor and teach, edit photographs and captions, process and make prints for the gallery, organize and hang the exhibit, and enjoy and learn about our community in Jacmel.
Zanmi Lakay has successfully completed our first annual Jouk Li Jouk Kan Foto with an amazing team of young Haitian photojournalists and outstanding volunteer pros. We were inspired by the Haitian saying Jouk Li Jou that means: we’ll never stop until the day is over, working hard to see a better life, and we’ll keep fighting until the end.
Every morning during Kan Foto our students chanted Jouk Li Jou! Jouk Li Jou! for inspiration. When the whole team made our group shot, we all chanted Jouk Li Jou! Jouk Li Jou! At odd hours throughout the days and with raised fists, children would burst out with Jouk Li Jou! Jouk Li Jou! During the opening exhibition our students, friends, and Haitians together all chanted Jouk Li Jou! Jouk Li Jou! while the Zel Maturin devils banged their wooden wings in unison and the words and sounds echoed around the walls of the gallery.
We believe in the positive power of Jouk Li Jou!
Thank you to all of our talented and creative young Haitian student photojournalists, the staff and children of ACFFC, our guests from Kole Zepol, Prince Luc and the FOSAJ Gallery, our driver Serge, Hotel Cyvadier, Joel Petion and Rodolph Lapointe, and all of the organizations and people of Jacmel for allowing us into their lives. Thanks to everyone who made this project happen by supporting us with your help, networks, equipment, supplies, and funds. Very special thanks to the Zanmi Lakay volunteer team of Kerry Rodgers, Mark Olson, Josh Curry, Shelley Eades, and Jakub Mosur for the extremely generous gifts of time and talent, hard work and creativity, and dedication and love for our project and the kids.
Thank you for sharing in our vision of creating a positive community event celebrating the visual stories of daily life as photographed by Haitian youth. These students, their families and the community are all about Jouk Li Jou no matter what happens in Haiti, and this event reflected their talent, learned skills, and creativity, as well as their resilience, dignity, and enduring spirit.
Documentary photographer who has lived in the San Francisco Bay Area over 25 years.
Elayna Yussen, an independent photographer, writer and multimedia producer who brings curiosity, sensitivity and authenticity to every assignment.
Former newspaper photojournalist. Now Freelancer. Specialize in candid (usually black and white) photography of preschool children.
I'm passionate about the ability of art to transform lives. I'm keenly interested in the role that art can play in public service.
She currently works with a variety of editorial, non-profit. Her goal is always to make well-crafted, poignant images.
Mark Olsen, based in San Francisco, CA, US, is currently a SVP Information Technology at ModSquad. Mark Olsen brings experience from previous roles at Wavewest, San Francisco, CA, Stericycle and PSC.
After earning a BA in Journalism from San Francisco State University, followed by internships and documentary projects, Shelly began working for media publications and nonprofits.
Balancing athletics and technology, Guy embodies resilience and creativity. His dual roles reflect a commitment to nurturing talent, solving problems, and strengthening communities—always with the goal of helping others succeed.
Through his leadership, Joel makes sure that no child is left behind. His reliability and compassion strengthen our community, and his work continues to inspire hope and opportunity for the kids we serve.
I got my start in photography in the late 80s shooting skateboarding. I had a few friends that were sponsored and we stomped around California looking for new spots.
Maggie Evens is a deeply compassionate individual who brings warmth and care into everything she does. Her ability to connect with others and offer support reflects her genuine commitment to helping those around her thrive.
Through her expertise, Alice helped others see the beauty in images and taught valuable techniques that inspired growth and confidence. She was not only skilled but also deeply committed to uplifting those around her.
Through visual journalism projects close to home and around the world, I seek to inform, educate and raise awareness, illuminating the humanity of all people and the diversity of beauty and injustice in the world.
Through his translation expertise, Rodolph helps our program deliver its services effectively and inclusively. His work allows us to reach more people, share knowledge, and strengthen the bonds within our community.
Georges Metellus has served as the Executive Director of the Art Creation Foundation for Children (ACFFC) since 2005. His vision and guidance have been central to the organization’s growth and impact.
Vladimir Simeon is a trusted go‑between who excels at bringing people together. His ability to connect the right individuals with the right opportunities makes him an invaluable part of our community
Frantz Nicolas is a talented dancer and artist whose passion for the arts shines through in everything he does. His creativity brings energy and inspiration to our community.
Jakub Mosur is a photographer based in San Francisco. His photographic skills include covering news events, editorial portraits, weddings, sports...
I'm a San Francisco Bay Area freelance photojournalist. I contribute regularly to Bloomberg News.
Ethan’s goal is to gain enough knowledge and experience to turn photography into a career. With determination and creativity, he hopes to transform his passion into a profession that allows him to share stories and inspire others through the lens.
In the early days, we had an amazing pinhole camera workshop put together by visiting San Francisco photographer Matthew Millman, outdoor slideshows, a permanent exhibit in Port-au-Prince, and students receive income from sales of their prints and postcards. Just to hold a camera is an exciting experience. The kids have worked individually and in groups using photography to interact with their community from a different perspective. In 2004 and 2005, our Photography Workshops thrived at Caritas St. Antoine, a small home for street children in Port-au-Prince. Twenty students went on field trips, photograms were created in a makeshift darkroom, Haitian photojournalist Evens Sanon presented his story of becoming a professional, and two U.S. photojournalists visited the class with their digital cameras.
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