Education is a catalyst for opportunity, independence, and long-term change. On this UN International Day of Education (January 24), we’re proud to share the story of Fabie Famenzie François, one of the 50 students supported each year through Hope for Haiti’s higher education Scholarship Program, whose determination and entrepreneurial spirit are shaping a brighter future for herself and her community.
A Dream Born from Resilience
Fabie is currently in her third year studying Agronomy at the Faculty of Agronomy at the American University of the Caribbean. Her journey to higher education was far from easy. Orphaned at a young age, Fabie faced immense hardship—struggling not only to stay in school, but to meet her most basic needs.
Living in Les Cayes with a host family, Fabie remained deeply connected to her roots in Torbeck, where her grandmother—the one person she could always count on—still lives. With no stable income and few resources, the odds were stacked against her. But even in the face of uncertainty, Fabie never stopped dreaming.
Education That Sparks Possibility
Through Hope for Haiti’s Scholarship Program, Fabie receives more than financial support. Regular quarterly meetings provide mentorship, encouragement, and practical life skills—helping students envision what’s possible beyond survival.
It was during these meetings that Fabie’s entrepreneurial spirit was ignited. Inspired to take action despite her limited means, she began saving what little she could to launch a small business: a chicken coop at her grandmother’s home.
Turning Challenges Into Opportunity
Starting the business wasn’t easy. “At the beginning, I had a lot of difficulty succeeding because the rats were at war with me,” Fabie recalls. “Out of 200 hens, I lost 70. But this did not discourage me. I acted—and I won the war.”
She started again, this time with about 110 hens. Today, Fabie’s coop is home to more than 400 chickens. Through hard work, leadership, and natural charisma, she’s built a loyal customer base and a reliable source of income.
The profits allow her to cover everyday needs—food, school books, clothing, and transportation—while gaining real-world business experience that complements her studies in agronomy.
Education That Changes the Future
Fabie is clear about the role education has played in her success. Without the Hope for Haiti Scholarship Program, she says, she would never have had the idea—or the confidence—to pursue this path. The program didn’t just help her stay in school; it changed her outlook on what she could achieve.
Looking ahead, Fabie dreams big. In the next 10 to 15 years, she envisions building a large-scale egg, broiler, and meat production enterprise, one that serves the Haitian national market and creates jobs.
She’s also passionate about empowering other women. Fabie believes that when more Haitian women are supported to start businesses, entire communities benefit through independence, job creation, and economic growth.
Why This Matters
Every year, Hope for Haiti supports 50 students pursuing higher education—future agronomists, educators, healthcare professionals, and entrepreneurs like Fabie. On this UN International Day of Education, her story is a powerful reminder: when education is accessible, it doesn’t just change one life—it strengthens families, communities, and the future of Haiti.
Watch a video about Fabie and her business here!
You can support students like Fabie by donating to Hope for Haiti’s Education Program today.
