Panel: Haiti in the Media

“Haiti in the Media: Navigating Narratives of Haiti in Global Media” promises to be a compelling examination of how Haiti is portrayed by the media. This panel’s distinguished lineup of journalists includes Marcus Garcia from Haiti en Marche, who brings perspectives from the Haitian diaspora and insights on how Haiti is viewed and understood abroad; Elizabeth Guerin of Island TV, who’ll provide a unique view of Haitian news and culture; and Carel Pedre of Chokarella, a prominent radio show known for its vibrant and interactive discussions on Haitian culture and current affairs. Together, they’ll explore the challenges and responsibilities of media representation, the impact of international coverage on local realities, and the power of journalism in shaping the global narrative of Haiti. This vital conversation aims to shed light on the complexities of reporting on Haiti’s socio-politico-cultural landscape, imparting a nuanced understanding of how the media influences and reflects the country’s current situation. Introduced by Jacqueline Charles of the Miami Herald, known for her insightful coverage of Haiti. Followed by a special Q&A with The Haitian Times, a publication dedicated to providing news and analysis on Haiti and its diaspora.

Miami Herald journalist JACQUELINE CHARLES’ impressive career reflects her commitment to the Caribbean, especially Haiti. Born on Grand Turk Island and raised by a Haitian mother and a Cuban stepfather in Miami, her multicultural background enriches her reporting. She embarked on her journalism journey as a 14-year-old high school intern at the Herald and later graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her dedication to covering Haiti’s multifaceted stories has garnered her several prestigious awards, including being a Pulitzer Prize finalist and an Emmy Award winner. Her work spans critical issues, from the devastating 2010 Haiti earthquake to the challenges faced by Haitian migrants, making her a respected voice in international journalism and a bridge between Haiti and the world.

ELIZABETH GUERIN is an influential media personality and entrepreneur with an extensive career beginning in childhood in Haiti. At age 15, she starred in the long-running Haitian radio series Woy, Les Voilà! and later pioneered the first Haitian television talk show with a live audience. After relocating to the United States, she continued to make significant contributions to Haitian media, notably by launching HTN, the first 24-hour Haitian TV station in America, and co-owning Island TV, which serves the Haitian and Caribbean diaspora in South Florida. Elizabeth also founded Imaginart Media Productions in Florida, offering diverse media services to various sectors. Known affectionately as “The Haitian Oprah,” her dynamic presence across radio, television, and production continues to shape the portrayal and understanding of Haitian culture abroad. Her current projects include hosting “What’s Up Caribbean,” a TV newsmagazine on NBC’s Network.

MARCUS GARCIA is a seasoned journalist and the director of Radio Melodie 103.3 FM in Haiti. With more than three decades in journalism, he began his career at Radio Inter and was a reporter for Radio Metropole before facing imprisonment and exile to the United States in 1980. Garcia is renowned for his work as a political analyst and his morning show on Radio Melodie, which is highly popular in Haiti. Despite the devastating loss of his wife in the 2010 earthquake, he continued his mission to inform and support the community. Garcia also serves as the secretary-general of the Haitian Independent Media Association, focusing on the state of media post-earthquake​.

CAREL PEDRE is a renowned Haitian media personality, celebrated for more than 25 years of significant contributions to radio, TV, and digital platforms. His work, especially during and after the tragic 2010 earthquake, has earned him international recognition and awards, including the 2010 Humanitarian Shorty Award. Pedre is also known for his philanthropic efforts – he supports various causes and serves on boards dedicated to education and health. As a digital media pioneer, he founded Chokarella, a leading digital platform in Haiti​.