Hello, my name is Anel Pierre;

I am a young professional with an associate degree in Electromechanical Engineering. At the moment I only have a few months left in my specialization year as a Bridge Scholarship Student. I am finishing my education in industrial maintenance, which will allow me to be more valuable in the labor market. But let me back up and tell you a bit about myself. 

After I graduated from high school, I couldn’t attend either university or trade school for several years because I did not have the means to afford it. However, I had always wanted to have a trade because of the opportunities I knew it would bring me.

It was a relief when in 2018, I became a Bridge Scholarship student. It was the best opportunity I have ever had so far, much more than just a bridge for me, a true lifeline for I knew my entire life would change.

Thanks to the team that offers opportunities to youth in Haiti, I now have abilities and skills in electromechanical and industrial maintenance such as: piping, welding, preventive maintenance, and industrial equipment installation. It was always a dream to be a technician - to learn skills that will help me, my family and my community - and the abilities I have from my studies will allow me to be more competitive and valuable throughout my career. Besides my studies, I have gotten experience as I worked as a welder trainee in a local company, getting to know the hazards of the profession in order to be more proficient. 

My journey with the Bridge Scholarship Program gave me broader perspectives and higher expectations for myself. The values, skills, and mindsets I have acquired during this period have set  me on the path of great achievements, and I am extremely grateful for this opportunity. I believe that as long as those in charge keep pushing the youth forward through career opportunities and study investment, our country may overcome its condition as we will raise a generation of leaders dedicated to their work and mission. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

My name is Branchedore Mackenwood, and I am a young Haitian man who is highly motivated in becoming a role model to inspire other young people through my life experiences and leadership.

To be honest, the initial reason I wanted to join the program was because I knew you all would help me to bring change to my life, my family, and my community. So, in April 2018 when I was notified that I was now a part of the Bridge family, it was a tremendous joy for me and I was certain that I was on the edge of great successes and accomplishments. A bridge to success, for sure.

I want to thank the entire Bridge Scholarship Board for their work and achievements across the country. And I am really grateful towards God and the entire program for these opportunities. I have always dreamed about being an electromechanic. Even as this field was becoming very important in the current society, I could recall my ability and desire to do it. I used to handle the electric in my household, so when I finally realized that this was a job, I was excited. 

Today, I feel proud to say that I have graduated from the field of electromechanics, and am completing extra studies in industrial maintenance to enhance my skills and make me a good professional. Besides that, I have been granted leadership training, English classes, and information assets to make me more valuable in the labor market and of course, more useful to my community! 

I chose to describe my journey with Bridge because sometimes it was very hard. It has been nearly two years since I graduated high school and entered the program, and I can say that the challenges and trials I had to face were worth it; they made me grow for the better. I have made many efforts to improve my English and I also did great in trade school at CFPH.

One of the best memories I had in the program was my graduation! To graduate from such a prestigious school in Haiti is a great achievement, valued by many. I was proud and so grateful. I also remember the various advice I heard from managers and other successful people that I was able to meet, thanks to the program. They helped me to become the person I am today and the future me that I will be forever grateful about. I have been inspired and prepared for a great career, but also to bring change. 

And lastly, I can never say enough how honored I am to be a part of this family and happy about all the opportunities. It was a pleasure to share with you my experience with Bridge Scholarship!

Thanks a million!