Haitians Who Blog is proud to fund underinvested and underrepresented educators, so they can foster, enrich, and nurture a supportive environment for their students without breaking the bank.
This quarter we partnered with Dorsainvil Creative, a small business branding and marketing agency offering solutions that target a diverse audience. Out of 25 educators, we selected one educator who demonstrates a commitment to fostering the minds of the next generation.
Our September grants was awarded to Sophia, an educator for the New Jersey School system. In a world where work and culture shape our identity, some individuals go above and beyond their professional roles, embracing their passion and purpose. Meet the remarkable educator, Mrs. D, who has been chosen as the recipient of the prestigious Creators Dream Grant. Beyond her dedication to teaching, Mrs. D's entrepreneurial spirit, philanthropy, and unwavering commitment to empowering children have made her a true role model.
A Teacher on a Mission
Being an educator is not just a job for Mrs. D. It is her purpose, her mission, and her vision. With a fun-loving and hands-on approach, Mrs. D believes in the transformative power of education. As a certified teacher for pre-K to grade 3, she has developed numerous resources on the Teachers' Pay Teachers platform to support her qualifications. Additionally, she runs a developmental program on weekends for elementary school-age children, providing them with valuable learning opportunities outside the classroom.
Recognizing the need for innovative teaching tools and products, Mrs. D has also ventured into the world of entrepreneurship. Through her Etsy page, she creates a range of teacher products, including T-shirts, stickers, worksheets, and learning kits. Her creativity knows no bounds, making these products not only educational but also unique and appealing to teachers and students alike.
Beyond her classroom and business endeavors, Mrs. D is a philanthropist at heart. Through the Deangels Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, she collaborates with organizations in Haiti to provide educational and health-related products to children, teachers, and the local community. Her dedication to promoting access to education and improving lives is truly inspiring.
A Teacher who Breaks Stereotypes
Mrs. D's decision to become an educator stemmed from her desire to be a teacher for students who looked like her. Her passion for teaching was evident from a young age when she and her sisters would play school, nurturing their love for education. Throughout her educational journey, Mrs. D's dedication only grew stronger, ultimately leading to her becoming a certified teacher and working in both preschool and elementary school settings. She shares, "I was able to confirm my interest in education as my major. I was able to get a job as a summer aide teacher and then as a substitute teacher for the upcoming school year. I moved up to teacher assistant, got more credentials to be a teacher and changed jobs. I started working for the public school where I continued teaching preschool. Recently I’ve been a second-grade teacher, and now I’ll be teaching third grade."
Being a teacher makes me feel free and creative. With the world being so judgmental being a teacher I want to share my light.
Making a Lasting Impact
As a Cheerleading Coach, Mrs. D went beyond the traditional classroom setting, introducing her students to a new sport and empowering them irrespective of their size or abilities. Through her coaching, she has helped students build self-esteem and overcome societal stereotypes, proving that everyone deserves an opportunity to shine.
We asked Mrs. D to share with us her future dreams and aspirations and looking ahead, Mrs. D envisions further growth in her career. She aspires to move beyond the classroom and become a consultant, coach, or supervisor, supporting and guiding teachers and staff members. Additionally, she aims to establish two educational facilities under her business name, providing a play-based center for children, particularly those with autism, where they can engage in activities designed to nurture their interests and boost their self-esteem.
Mrs. D emphasizes the significance of community support for teachers, "There are many ways that people can get involved and help teachers.” She encourages people to get involved by helping their local schools through fundraisers, donations, or by supporting online nonprofit platforms like Donors Choose and Amazon Clears the List. By showing appreciation for the hard work and dedication of teachers, we can collectively empower educators to create a better future for our children. One is simply helping your local school.
Her journey is a testament to the impact one individual can make when they pour their heart and soul into their work. As the deserving recipient of the Creators Dream Grant, she continues to inspire others with her dedication to education, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Through her unwavering commitment to empowering children and promoting access to education, Mrs. D is making a lasting difference in the lives of many, and her influence serves as a reminder of the transformative power of a passionate and caring teacher.
About The Creators Dream Grant
The Creators Dream Grant is a quarterly grant program that supports entrepreneurship and small business creation in the Haitian community. The grant provides microgrants of up to $500 to individuals looking to start or expand their dreams. To become a partner for the next grant cycle, email haitianswhoblog@gmail.com
About Haitians Who Blog
Haitians Who Blog is the first community-driven hub dedicated to amplifying the voices of Haitian creatives. We started as the first network of Haitian bloggers and content creators, sharing our unique stories and cultivating a community. Today, Haitians Who Blog has evolved into the leading media and lifestyle platform for Haitian creatives seeking career resources, cultural celebration, inspiration, and professional development. We empower and support Haitian creatives in achieving their full potential while promoting the rich and diverse culture of Haiti to a global audience.
