Since graduating from Grace Emmanuel School in July 2019, Ferlandy has worked steadily toward a better future—not just for himself, but for others around him.

Chosen as one of three scholarship recipients from his class, Ferlandy pursued electro-technology, following a longtime dream of becoming a skilled technician.

“I always had a dream to become a great technician,” he said, “so I could train other people.”

Even in his scholarship application, Ferlandy’s vision extended beyond personal success:

“After my studies I will use my knowledge to support and help my community. I think there is only one way to make that happen: to share my knowledge with those around me so we can all be a part of changing Haiti.”

Trade school became, in his words, “a beautiful experience” where he gained not only technical skills, but maturity and perseverance.

A dream bigger than himself

When he completed his training, Ferlandy was determined to give back. In an interview with JiHM in April 2022, he said to those who had supported him, “You can be proud of me, because I won’t keep this knowledge to myself.”

He has kept that promise, though it hasn’t looked like he expected.

Within a year of finishing trade school, gang violence forced Ferlandy and his family from their home. A friend took them in as they searched for stability.

“I learned to trust God more during this discouraging time,” he reflected, “because it was God who took care of us.”

Passing On What He Received

After settling in Cabaret, Ferlandy began putting his dream into action through his church. There, he launched a training program called Mendy Tech, where he taught local youth electrical work and practical trade skills. Before insecurity once again disrupted the program, he had trained around 25 students.

Students learned hands-on skills using screwdrivers, pliers, drills, measuring tape, and soldering tools. They practiced running wire through conduit, testing transformers, and installing electrical systems in buildings. Ferlandy also taught electronics and inverter installation.

But for him, the training was never only technical.

“I started class with a devotion,” Ferlandy said. “Then I taught the material for the day, and afterward we prayed to finish.”

For Ferlandy, teaching others is a direct response to what he himself received.

“Grace Emmanuel School contributed so much to the person I am today,” he said. “Without the support of sponsors, I would never have arrived where I am now. I can only train others because of what I received free from Grace Emmanuel School.”

Hope for the future

Like so many efforts in Haiti right now, the school has been interrupted by instability and insecurity. Many young people simply cannot afford tuition, so Ferlandy continues offering free training through his church whenever possible while supervising electrical projects as work becomes available.

Still, his vision has not changed.

Ferlandy hopes to one day reopen and expand the program into a larger professional school where more young people can learn a trade and build a future.

“I would like all the youth in the community to have a profession,” he said. “I want to serve as a model to other youth.”

Through every challenge of recent years, Ferlandy says his faith in Jesus Christ has remained steady.

“I always see the presence of God in all that I do,” he shared, “because He always is with me to turn all things for good.”

Even on difficult days, Ferlandy continues to choose hope.

“I can smile for the coming days because I put my confidence in God.”