Empowering the future of Haiti: Mariette Vil
We have a special story about Mariette Vil, a young woman from Marmelade. Her journey is a testament to Help for Haiti’s commitment to EDUCATE in unique circumstances.
Mariette Vil started school in the 3rd grade at Institution Mixte Martin Luther (IMML) when she was 19 years old. Mariette had been living with her father and brother and was responsible for all of the house work until Help for Haiti was able to offer her a place at IMML with financial support from our tuition assistance program.
Marriette shares with us about her challenging journey, recounting how, at the age of 19, she embarked on her educational path starting from the 3rd grade. Enduring ridicule from peers for being older than her classmates only fueled her determination. Despite these adversities, Mariette says it only motivated her to intensify her studies in the pursuit of success!
In 10th grade, Mariette received news that she would be relocating to Gonaives, a coastal town 32 miles west of Marmelade. Determined to pursue her education and graduate from high school, Mariette faced uncertainty about the feasibility of her dream. However, despite the challenges, Help for Haiti remained steadfast in its commitment to Mariette's education. Upon hearing of Mariette's impending departure, the organization felt called to support her journey, even if it meant extending their assistance to another school. Through our partnership with CanEducate, we have been able to support 50% of Mariiette's tuition costs. CanEducate has covered 30% of her expenses, while assistance from Help for Haiti has accounted for the remaining 20%.
Exciting news! Mariette has successfully graduated from high school in Gonaives! Reflecting on her remarkable educational journey, she expressed gratitude, saying, "There are many children eager to learn, but lack the means. I feel blessed that Help for Haiti crossed my path to lend a helping hand." Mariette's journey continues with new aspirations. She shares, "I dream of becoming a skilled laboratory technician and opening my own clinic to serve the community. I aim for a better life, filled with travel and self-reliance." Her gratitude shines through as she reflects, "Help for Haiti played a pivotal role in achieving my educational goals. Now, I'm driven to work hard and pay it forward by helping others." We hope Mariette's extraordinary journey offers a glimpse of the hope, determination, and resilience we aim to cultivate in all our students. Each path is unique, with its own challenges to overcome. Ultimately, we place our trust in Him who is able to do far more than we ask, think, or imagine, to Him be all glory, honor, and praise (Ephesians 3:20-21).
With hope and gratitude,
Your Help for Haiti Team
