“Haitian Conversation” is a captivating four-episode series, each approximately a half- hour long, that delves into the rich tapestry of Haitian arts and culture and occasionally, civic leadership. Designed to enlighten and inspire, this series aims to bring the vibrant essence of Haiti to viewers, showcasing the nation’s unique cultural heritage, artistic expressions, and the resilient spirit of its people. Through intimate conversations, in- depth interviews, and immersive storytelling, “Haitian Conversation” offers an unparalleled exploration of a nation whose contributions to global arts, culture and society are both profound and underrepresented.
Edna LaRoche-Labrousse
While born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Edna LaRoche-Labrousse has always been proud of her Haitian Heritage. Raised by a village that included her mother, Olivena, aunt Annette and numerous other family and friends, she was surrounded by Haitian culture and absorbed every inch of that exposure. Edna’s television journey began with producing and hosting The New Haitian Generation on BECON-TV. For over seven years, she interviewed successful Haitians from all walks of life with the goal being to showcase those who were successful in doing what they’d chosen to do in life, and it was not focused on financial gains.
Her background includes positions with New York Magazine, Sun-Sentinel, and these last eight years with the City of Miramar as Executive Assistant to Mayor Wayne Messam but her passion for seeing Haitian culture reflected in television calls.
Episode 1: Heartbeats of Little Haiti: Art, Faith, and Culture
This episode sets the stage by exploring Haiti’s history of resistance and revolution through its art. Featuring in-depth interviews with contemporary artists and curators, the episode uncovers how Haiti’s past has influenced the present-day art scene. Viewers are introduced to the iconic Little Haiti Cultural Complex in the City of Miami which features art galleries, community rooms, computer labs, performing arts center, vibrant courtyard, marketplace and more. Highlights of the episode also include the work of artists including photojournalist Carl Juste and Edouard Duval-Carrié, artists who blend traditional techniques with modern themes, illustrating the enduring power of art as a tool for social change. The episode concludes with a feature on Notre Dame D’Haiti, the Catholic Church in Little Haiti and it’s Learning Center which serves as a social hub for its members- young and old- offering literacy classes, college and job readiness training, recreational activities for the elderly and more.
Episode 2: Culinary Creations
Haitian cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavors, influenced by African, French, Taino, and Spanish culinary traditions. This episode invites viewers into the kitchen of celebrated Chef, Vicky Colas, offering a tantalizing look at the her flair for cooking as a James Beard Fellow, who has also competed on Top Chef, Beating Bobby Flay, and more. We visit with Chef Colas at her Pro-Kitchen Hub shared kitchen facility and discover her avenue to becoming one of the renowned chefs of her generation.
Episode 3: Rhythms of the Island
Music is the heartbeat of Haitian culture, and this episode takes viewers on a melodious journey through the island’s diverse musical landscape and a behind the scenes look at COMPASFEST, when they celebrated their 25th Anniversary. From the pulsating beats of rara and the soulful rhythms of compas, Compasfest celebrates the rich musical heritage that defines Haiti. Interviews with renowned musicians, live performances, and exclusive interview with the co-founder of this festival, Mr. Rodney Noel.