SUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL (Le Floridien) — MJD Wellness and Community Center, Inc., a Miami-Dade–based nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, celebrated its 10th Anniversary of foundation with a Gala, last Friday, October 10, at the elegant Ramada Hotel in Sunny Isles Beach. A nice crowd of about 350 guests, including civic leaders, community advocates, and supporters showed up for an evening that honored a decade of health education, advocacy, and compassionate outreach that has changed countless lives across South Florida.
Festivities began with a cocktail reception from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m., allowing guests to mingle and share memories before entering the grand ballroom for the official ceremony. The program opened with a prayer for the assembly, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection for the organization’s decade-long journey.
The event’s keynote speaker, Mr. Fabien Basade, Florida State Representative District 106, known for his steadfast support of MJD Wellness, delivered an inspiring address on community commitment and sustainable impact. “MJD’s work is proof that vision and compassion can change the future of families and neighborhoods,” he said, drawing applause from the audience.
Messages of Gratitude and Recognition
In her welcoming remarks, President and Founder Emmanuella (Manou) Fleurimont expressed heartfelt thanks to the guests and supporters who have stood by MJD since its founding in 2015. She highlighted the organization’s humble beginnings and its growth into a trusted institution providing food assistance, mobile health outreach, education, and empowerment programs.
Throughout the evening, several dignitaries addressed the audience. North Miami Mayor Alix Desulme, present in person, offered a passionate — and notably lengthy — speech praising the center’s service before officially proclaiming October 10 as “MJD Wellness and Community Center Day” in North Miami. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, appearing via pre-recorded video, congratulated the staff and leadership of MJD for their dedication to transforming lives across the county.
A representative from Miami-Dade Mayor’s office, Melonie Burke, also took the stage to present a proclamation recognizing the organization’s vital contributions.
Honoring a Decade of Leadership
Ms. Fleurimont took time to personally acknowledge those who have supported MJD’s mission over the years, including former North Miami Mayors André Pierre and Philippe Bien-Aimé, as well as former Miami-Dade District 2 Commissioner Jean Monestime. Each received warm applause as she spoke of their lasting encouragement and partnership.
In turn, MJD recognized several elected officials — past and present — with plaques of appreciation for their continued support.
One of the most powerful moments of the evening came from Ms. Rose Coriolan, a leading member of MJD, whose speech traced the organization’s founding principles, mission, and impact. She reminded attendees that MJD’s success is rooted in teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to serving the most vulnerable. “We’ve accomplished a lot,” she said, “but our work is far from finished. We need everyone’s continued support.”
A video presentation followed, showcasing MJD’s programs, partnerships, and the human stories behind its impact — from mobile health clinics to food distributions and wellness education across Miami-Dade communities.
Honoring Unsung Heroes
The night also celebrated the “heroes whose steady commitment keeps the doors open and the work moving forward.” Among those recognized were Alexis Noel (Ti Gana), Delince Jean Baptiste, Fabrice Pascal Polynice (DJ PAZ), DJ AJ, Kenol Walchin (Coach Kenol), Marvin Pigeot, Ralph René Lamartinière (Blan René), and Solomon Saintvil (DJ Grio). Their dedication, as described by the president, “embodies the heart and soul of MJD.”
Following the awards segment, guests gathered for photo souvenirs with MJD members, honorees, and local officials — capturing memories of a night that blended elegance, gratitude, and community pride.
A Joyful Conclusion
Before the entertainment portion, Dr. Marie Etienne offered a closing prayer, blessing the organization’s continued journey. The crowd then danced the night away to the high-energy performance of the popular Haitian konpa band KLASS, whose 90-minute set kept the ballroom vibrant until the early morning hours.
The gala concluded around 1:00 a.m., leaving attendees inspired by MJD’s journey and hopeful for the organization’s next decade of service.
A Legacy of Impact
Founded in 2015 by Emmanuella “Manou” Fleurimont, MJD Wellness and Community Center has become a cornerstone for underserved and immigrant communities across Miami-Dade County. Through health screenings, educational workshops, empowerment programs, and monthly food drives, the organization continues to live out its mission: to promote wellness, dignity, and equity for all.
As MJD embarks on its next chapter, the message from its leadership is clear — the journey of compassion, service, and community empowerment is just getting started.
