(North Miami) — On a significant weekend celebrating International Women’s Day, the Family Action Network Movement (FANM), a pivotal organization rooted in the empowerment of women and strengthening families, held its 31st Annual Fundraising Gala.
Founded in 1991 by activist and social worker Marleine Bastien, who is currently a member of The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, FANM stood for “Fanm Ayisyen Nan Miyami, Inc” or “Haitian Women of Miami” at the time of its inception. FANM’s goal was to strengthen families through the empowerment of women.
This gala, themed ‘Building Strong Families,’ took place at the FIU North-Kovens Conference Center in North Miami, attracting around 200 guests, including esteemed community leaders and advocates for social change.
To connect generations, the committee selected two young leaders from the organization, 16-year-old Christina and 13-year-old Akeem Bellace Andre, as the event’s hosts, who performed their roles excellently. Monseigneur Fritz Bazin delivered the opening invocation, followed by a gifted Haitian American Singer performing the U.S. and Haiti National Anthems.
The speakers engaging the elegantly attired audience included Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade District 2 Commissioner Marleine Bastien (the founder), and Ira Kurzban, a renowned immigration attorney based in Coral Gables.
On the night of March 9, the local nonprofit organization honored four distinguished individuals: Brian Concannon, a human rights lawyer and activist; Dr. Joseph Durandis, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Excel Medical Associates; Vanessa Joseph, Esq., an immigration attorney currently with Catholic Legal Services, Inc., Archdiocese of Miami; and Esther Merilien, a board-certified family nurse practitioner.”
The organization honored these remarkable individuals who are central to their fields, dedicating their work to assisting those in need.
Video messages from each honoree were showcased on two large screens, where they briefly introduced themselves and expressed gratitude to the organization for acknowledging them as Distinguished Honorees of 2024.
The event featured performances by Haitian American singer/songwriter Porsha É, the globally recognized American musician Jelani Akil Bauman, choreographer Sheila Bastien, the Kaju Haitian Folkloric Dance Company, and FANM’s own dance ensemble.
Renowned South Florida Haitian DJ Nixon St Hubert, popularly known as DJ Nickymix, entertained the guests with an exquisite selection of Haiti konpa, Caribbean, and Afro music, keeping the dance floor lively until 11pm.
The 31st Annual Fundraising Gala not only celebrated the accomplishments of those at the forefront of social change but also underscored FANM’s vital role in the community. By honoring leaders, empowering youth, and fostering a spirit of unity, FANM continues to be a beacon of hope and resilience for families across Miami. This event, marking three decades of commitment and service, heralds a future where every family can thrive in a supportive and equitable society.
Dessalines Ferdinand
