HAITIAN CINEMA: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

DUDLEY ALEXIS is a versatile visual artist and filmmaker originally from Haiti, renowned for spotlighting overlooked individuals and stories. Settling in Miami in his teens, Alexis immersed himself in its art scene and honed a distinctive storytelling approach that melds cultural anthropology and empathetic narration. His body of work includes short documentaries and his acclaimed full-length documentary, Liberty in a Soup (2016), exploring the rich history of Haiti's national dish, “soup joumou,” a symbol of Haiti's liberation from France. Alexis' works in the fine arts sector are noteworthy, including his participation in the “Kingdom of This World, Reimagined” during Miami Art Week 2019. Dubbed a modern renaissance man, he combines creativity, tenacity, and an unrelenting quest for knowledge to address global issues and advocate for societal transformation and equity, intending to challenge and reshape public perceptions and consciousness.

Born in Haiti, FRANTZ VOLTAIRE is an esteemed historian, academic, filmmaker, and advocate for Afro-Caribbean and Black Canadian heritage, embodying the role of “passeur,” or transmitter of heritage. Experiencing oppression under Jean-Claude Duvalier, he relocated to Montreal in the 1970s, continuing his extensive academic pursuits and earning master’s degrees in political science and international relations. Montreal became the foundation for his efforts to preserve Afro-Caribbean culture, leading the CIDIHCA, an institution likened to a “little Smithsonian Institute for Haitians in Canada.” Voltaire, awarded the Order of Montreal and a medal from Quebec’s National Assembly, merges Afro-Canadian history with Canada's broader narrative. His impactful filmography and significant literary works, including Black Power in Haiti, extend his reach. Co-founding the Montreal Human Rights Film Festival and contributing to diverse advisory boards illustrate his commitment to community and rights advocacy. Author Sarah Martinez chronicled Voltaire's monumental contributions in Un étranger de l'intérieur, recognizing his continuous fight “for the dignity of people.”

Hailing from Haiti, GENJI JACQUES, the “Haitian Denzel,” is a multifaceted talent in cinema, stage, and television, bringing depth and authenticity to diverse characters. For Jacques, acting is not just a profession, but a purposeful calling to entertain and minister to people. He gained prominence with the blockbuster Wind of Desire in 2000 and showcased his versatility through TV series like The Glades and Burn Notice, and stage plays like You’re Never Alone. He has also been acclaimed for his directorial ventures, including stage plays Hoztage and When Good Men Are Tempted, produced by his co-owned company, Godz Sun Productions. Inspired by acting legends, Jacques honed his skills through workshops and holds degrees in communications and Christian ministry. His role as Alfred T. Hair in The Unknowns: Talent is Colorblind is considered profoundly impactful. Residing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with his wife, Sandra Jacques, he remains a passionate and influential force in the performing arts.

KAROLL-ANN FANFAN is a multifaceted entrepreneur and CEO of Miami-based tax consultancy, TaxFit LLC. Starting as data entry staff, she ascended to a leading tax preparer and enrolled agent, maximizing clients’ tax savings. Beyond tax consultancy, she owns Kouka’s Closet, which merges her leadership and creative expression, and is the vibrant face of the brand on social media. Her journey, marked by resilience, encompasses public sharing of her health struggles, demonstrating her perseverance and multifaceted success. Fanfan actively voices insights for Haitian entrepreneurs, emphasizing her dedication and passion. Her influence, reflecting grit, determination, and a zest for life, inspires entrepreneurs globally, and exemplifies that with unwavering dedication, limitless accomplishments are attainable. She stands as a beacon, illustrating that diverse leadership and overcoming personal obstacles are pathways to profound success.