By Le Floridien________________________
Miramar, FL – In a heartfelt moment of recognition during Haitian Heritage Month, the City of Miramar honored Dessalines Ferdinand, publisher of Le Floridien, with the Outstanding Community Impact Award for 25 years of dedicated service to the community.
The award was presented during the Community City Conversation event, hosted by Miramar Commissioner Eddy Edwards on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The evening served as a dynamic forum where city officials, residents, and community advocates gathered to explore pathways for doing business with the City of Miramar, while also honoring the enduring contributions of the Haitian diaspora to the cultural and economic fabric of Miramar and the broader South Florida region.
“It was a profound honor to receive this award. It validates the unwavering dedication we’ve invested in Le Floridien over the past 25 years—not only as a newspaper, but as a trusted voice and tireless advocate for our community.”
“Although the award bears my name and many recognize me as the face of the publication, I proudly accepted it on behalf of the whole team—especially those who work hard behind the scenes and deserve just as much credit.”
– Dessalines Ferdinand, publisher of Le Floridien –
Farah Larrieux, Director of Thelar Management Group; Edna Laroche-Labrousse; and Rhonda Veerasawmy LeBlanc and Pierre Leblanc, Founder and Co-founder of Rhonda Eyes Alliance, Inc., were also among the South Florida Haitian community members honored during the event.
Founded in 2001, Le Floridien has become the most respected Haitian publication in South Florida, consistently informing, uplifting, and connecting Haitian Americans through journalism that reflects their experiences and culture. Under Ferdinand’s leadership, the publication has covered everything from politics and education to immigration, entrepreneurship, sports, and arts.
As part of the celebration, Jeffrey Ferdinand, son of the publisher, captured the moment on video, while Le Floridien’s longtime photographer Ricardo Saint-Cyr documented the evening. Despite a brief rain, the event drew a warm and engaged crowd—an emblem of the Haitian community’s strength and unity.
Commissioner Eddy Edwards, known for his active engagement with Haitian residents, thanked Ferdinand for “being a pillar in the community and a champion of Haitian heritage.”
The evening also featured remarks on the importance of civic engagement, cultural preservation, and supporting local voices—values that Le Floridien has consistently embodied throughout its 25-year journey.
As Haitian Heritage Month continues to be celebrated across South Florida, this award not only honors a media pioneer but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of community journalism.
Well-known Haitian guitarist and singer Wooly Saint-Louis Jean added a vibrant cultural touch to the evening, captivating the audience with a live performance that celebrated the richness of Haitian music. His soulful renditions and masterful guitar work infused the atmosphere with pride and nostalgia, providing a joyful soundtrack to a night dedicated to community, heritage, and recognition.
