On January 5th, 2008, the Haitian Embassy in Washington, DC, in conjunction with the Haitian Foreign Ministry, hosted a black-tie gala celebration to mark the National Day of the Republic of Haiti at the Grand Hyatt Washington.  The 300 plus guests, which included VIP personalities and members of the DC Diplomatic corps, were treated to Haitian music, art, culture and cuisine. 

January 1st, 2008 marked the two hundred and fourth (204th) anniversary of the Republic of Haiti.  Haitian Independence Day commemorates the birth of the free Republic of Haiti, which was a sign of hope to other Caribbean colonies and sparked a wave of independence movements in the region.  As the Haitian people work to build a future for their nation, this Day of Independence is a chance to reflect on the road ahead, as well as celebrate recent successes.

            During the program Ambassador Raymond Joseph presented two awards honoring outstanding partners in Haitian development.  The awards were given to:

            For Responsible Corporate Policy: Brad Horwitz, President and CEO of Trilogy International Partners (the parent company of Comcel, which operates in Haiti as Voilà), a leading wireless communications provider.  Operating since 1999, the Company is the largest contributor of tax dollars to the Haitian government and the principal supporter of the Yélé Haiti Foundation, the foundation of the Grammy Award winning musician Wyclef Jean.  Voilà has demonstrated a vested interest in every level of Haitian development.

            For National Pride: Harold Charles, the President of TCI SkyKing, based Turks and Caicous Islands.  TCI is a dream come true for Haitian born Harold Charles.  Since 1994, SkyKing has grown from a small, two aircraft charter service into an airline that serves 9 cities in the Caribbean with reliable flights, 7 days a week.

            Dr. Marc Christophe received the Community Award for his work with future generations of Haitians.  Two Employees of the Embassy in Washington were also honored; Minister Consular Carole Preval and Mary Myriam Darisme Sanon.

            The night went well and it was a pride moment for Haiti and especially those of us who attended the gala.  Haitianite.com wishes to congratulate the Ambassador, Mr. Raymond Joseph and his wife for putting together such a great gala honoring the Republic of Haiti.  In addition, Haitianite.com wishes to thank Gwynne Beatty of Voilà for her support of Haiti, first through Yélé and currently through Voilà.

Click on thumbnail below to view the slideshow. For the full Album click HERE

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