Orlande Fleury
Caribbeanlife.com
Haitian-American elected officials, community leaders, and influential cultural figures gathered at the Museum of Contemporary African Diaspora Arts (MoCADA) Gallery and Café in Brooklyn on April 13, 2026, to attend “A Night for Haiti,” a vibrant celebration honoring Haitian soccer star Duckens Nazon, ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Among those in attendance were New York State Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn; New York City Councilwoman Farah Louis; the district leader, Josue Pierre; and Debbie Louis who serves as assistant secretary of intergovernmental affairs in the New York State Executive Chamber and is an adjunct professor at York College.
The invitation-only event sparkled with excitement as media figures, civic leaders and members of the Haitian diaspora gathered to joyfully celebrate Nazon’s achievements and Haiti’s long-awaited return to the world’s largest soccer stage.
“It was a night for Haiti; a night of black excellence, success and resilience,” Debbie Louis declared in an interview with the newspaper Caribbean Life (which is part of Tricia Lindsay).
Haiti prepares to compete in the FIFA World Cup for the first time in more than 50 years. The country’s only previous participation took place in 1974, in West Germany.
Haiti officially qualified for the 2026 World Cup on November 19, 2025. They secured their spot with a 2-0 victory over Nicaragua during CONCACAF qualifying, finishing top of their group.
As the nation prepares with bated breath for his long-awaited return, the Brooklyn event stood out as a vibrant celebration of Haitian pride and a heartfelt recognition of one of its most influential athletes.
Nazon, Haiti’s all-time leading scorer, is expected to play a key role for his team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Recently, on April 11, 2026, Nazon was honored with the presentation of the Keys to the City of North Miami Beach. This award recognizes his impact on both international football and the Haitian community. During the event, elected officials enthusiastically presented honorable mentions and formal proclamations honoring Nazon’s outstanding contributions to sports and Haitian national pride.
“Today we celebrate not only Haiti’s return to the World Cup after years of absence, but also one of the great players who made it possible: Duckens Nazon,” said Josue Pierre, leader of the 42nd Assembly District.
Assemblywoman Bichotte Hermelyn praised both Nazon and the Haitian national team.
“Duckens, we are here to honor you, and we honor the entire Haitian national soccer team; a team that embodies courage, that fights not only for victory, but for its identity,” he said. “Thanks to your leadership, in 2026 the world will not only hear about Haiti’s struggles, but will see Haiti’s strength on the world stage,” Hermelyn stated.
He added: “For 52 years, our nation has waited to return to the world’s biggest stage. Through adversity that would have broken others, you have remained resilient. You are Haiti’s all-time leading scorer and you represent courage and perseverance.”
For her part, Councilor Farah Louis highlighted the broader cultural significance of this moment. “Tonight is not just about sports; it is about pride, representation and the global presence of the Haitian community,” he said.
“As we look ahead to the World Cup, we witness Haiti’s presence on one of the greatest stages on the planet. That moment carries hope, history and resilience.”
Nazon: “We are not afraid”
Duckens Nazon expressed confidence and pride as he prepared to represent Haiti internationally.
“I am here to represent Haiti, to play and to win. My teammates are ready. We are not afraid. The world will see Haiti,” he said.
Mabï Artisanal Tea blend, Haitian Powerhouse (Café, Pâtisserie & Bakery) and other cultural actors organized and presented the event. This reflects the diaspora’s strong support for Haitian athletes who will compete on the global stage.
Organizers and attendees alike agreed that the event joyfully celebrated sporting excellence and proudly honored Haiti’s vibrant cultural influence as well as its broad global impact.
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As Haiti prepares for the 2026 World Cup, leaders and followers affirm that this occasion transcends the merely sporting; It stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, unity and Haiti’s triumphant presence on the world stage.
The event featured a lively and select reception, with catering provided by Rogers Burgers. Guests enthusiastically described this intimate gathering as a high-impact event that celebrated the deep unity and pride of the Haitian community.
The event would not have been possible without Mickael Marabou, who played a fundamental role in the organization and execution of this evening. Marabou is a Haitian-American artist, creative, and cultural ambassador.
She is recognized for her distinctive “Afro Kreyol” sound, which fuses Caribbean, Afrobeat and global influences. Additionally, she recently made history by becoming the first Caribbean artist to headline an Audiomack Connect event in New York City, further cementing her impact on the global music and cultural landscape.
