The Haitian Ladies Weekend 2024, a unique and vibrant three-day event, was organized by the esteemed Haitian Ladies Network®.
It took place from October 11-13, 2024, at the prestigious Capital Hilton in Washington, D.C. This event was a celebration of Haitian leadership and culture, set against the backdrop of ongoing global conversations about empowerment, diaspora engagement, and advocacy. With the theme “Igniting Our Power,” the conference aimed to highlight the significant contributions of Haitian women to global leadership, elevate their voices, and foster discussions about the future of Haiti and its diaspora.
Haitian Ladies Weekend 2024 united over 500 Haitian women leaders from across the globe, creating a powerful network focused on empowerment, networking, and cultural pride. The event was strategically timed to coincide with the global spotlight on women’s leadership and the increasing influence of the Haitian diaspora in shaping social, economic, and political landscapes.
Haitian Ladies Weekend 2024 was a beacon of hope and action in the face of ongoing political and economic challenges in Haiti and the global discourse on immigration and women’s empowerment. The event provided a unique platform for reflection, collaboration, and action. With a robust lineup of speakers and interactive panels, the conference offered valuable insights into issues affecting the Haitian community and the broader landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts across the U.S. and beyond.
The agenda was filled with opportunities for engagement and learning. The weekend kicked off with an Opening Reception and Networking event at the Organization of American States on Friday, October 11. Participants looked forward to a day of symposium workshops, panels, wellness lounges, and a marketplace at the Capital Hilton on Saturday, October 12. The weekend culminated on Sunday, October 13, with a keynote address, brunch, and a closing ceremony at the same venue.
The event was graced by a diverse and influential group of speakers, including Her Excellency Ms. Dominique Dupuy, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Haitians Living Abroad for the Government of Haiti; renowned fashion designer and activist Stella Jean; actor, producer, and best-selling author Garcelle Beauvais; and Magalie Laguerre Wilkinson, Vice President and Executive Producer at Paramount Global. Other notable figures included Arielle Dominique, Co-Founder of the Haitian Ladies Network; Karen Andre, CEO of People First Strategies; and Danielle Cadet, Media Executive and Host.
Adding to the cultural celebration, the event featured “Spirit & Strength: Modern Art from Haiti,” an exhibition at the National Gallery of Art that showcased Haiti’s rich cultural heritage. This exhibition served as a platform for advocating underrepresented voices during a time of global recognition for Haitian artistry.
The Haitian Ladies Weekend 2024 promised attendees an empowering and enriching experience, fostering discussions that could drive meaningful change within the Haitian community and beyond. By celebrating the achievements and contributions of Haitian women leaders, the event aimed to ignite a renewed sense of pride and action among participants, ultimately strengthening the ties within the Haitian diaspora. As the world increasingly recognized the role of women in leadership, this event stood as a beacon of empowerment and unity for Haitian women everywhere.
