Timoun an Aksyon (Kids in Action)

Nearly half of Haiti’s population is under the age of 20. Young people are especially at risk in disasters, not only from immediate injury but also from long-term impacts to their families, homes, and schools. By enabling young people in Cap-Haïtien to take action that makes their communities safer from extreme hazards, this youth-led program is turning fear into empowerment. With their own voices and creative style, they are sharing new knowledge with peers and the public.

Cap-Haïtien is Haiti’s second largest city, with a population of 275,000. Many people live in low-lying areas near the sea. Their most devastating natural hazard is tsunamis. Faults just offshore can generate powerful earthquakes followed by tsunamis that could reach dense neighborhoods in under half an hour. In addition, tropical storms bring flooding, landslides, and erosion; sea level rise is an ever-present hazard.

The Timoun an Aksyon (Kids in Action) project brings together a diverse group of students from 17 public and private schools, at both elementary and secondary levels. Trainings have reached nearly 8,000 students so far, providing an opportunity to understand the science behind disasters, how to prepare, and how to help members of their families and those around them. The project’s Youth Resilience Club developed and organized community outreach activities.

One activity was a slam poetry contest. There were amazing entries, and winners at each school. The youth club also learned painting techniques and created paintings to express their emotions and thoughts around the hazards they face. One participant entered his artwork in an international competition and was one of 16 awardees from around the world.