With the FIFA World Cup as a backdrop, Atlanta's Haitian leaders are turning a historic sporting moment into lasting opportunities.
As Haiti prepares for its first FIFA World Cup appearance in more than 50 years, leaders from across Atlanta’s Haitian community gathered for a special edition of Global Atlanta‘s Consular Conversations series to discuss the connections between Haiti and Georgia, the role of the diaspora, and the opportunities surrounding the tournament.
Below are a few of the voices helping shape Haiti’s global stage moment in Atlanta.
“After more than 50 years, Haiti is once again present on the world stage of football, participating in the FIFA World Cup. This achievement is not only a sporting milestone, it is a symbol of national unity, perseverance, and hope.”
As Haiti’s chief diplomatic representative in Atlanta, Consul General Marie Orlyne Colas Rene opened the conversation by reflecting on the longstanding ties between Haiti and Georgia, from the Siege of Savannah to today’s growing Haitian community across metro Atlanta.
She emphasized that the upcoming Haiti-Morocco match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium represents far more than a sporting event.
“This encounter represents far more than a sporting competition. It is a celebration of talent, culture, and international friendship.”
“What I like about Atlanta is that Atlanta is very open to many different cultures. We’ve been embraced here as a Haitian culture in Atlanta. That’s just been our experience here.”
Dr. Ronald Cetoute discussed the growth of Haitian-owned businesses and the work being done to connect entrepreneurs, organizations, and community leaders across the diaspora. He also outlined plans for a series of activations tied to the World Cup, including cultural events, marketplaces, educational programming, and opportunities to showcase Haitian businesses throughout the region.
“We want to have something like that, a marketplace where people will come and experience different businesses and really empower them so people can actually see what’s out here in the city and the local businesses that are of Haitian descent.”
“The goal of Haiti Haus is to be the umbrella activation for all things Haiti when it comes to World Cup season here in Atlanta.”
Representing Haiti Haus, Antenor shared plans for a cultural platform designed to bring together food, music, art, sports, entrepreneurship, and community programming during the World Cup.
The initiative is being developed in partnership with the Consulate General of Haiti in Atlanta, the Federation of Haitian Chambers of Commerce, and the Georgia Haitian American Chamber of Commerce.
For Antenor, the concept extends beyond a single location or event.
“Haiti Haus as an identity expands globally. This pilot is set to explain and usher in what you can expect in 2028 for the Olympic Games.”
“My grandfather always instilled in me to find ways not to be a donor for Haiti, but to create opportunities.”
Jerry Grammont shared how a trip to Haiti inspired him to launch Mabi Artisanal Tea, building a business around a traditional Caribbean beverage while creating economic opportunities connected to Haiti.
His perspective highlighted a recurring theme throughout the discussion: using entrepreneurship not only to celebrate culture, but to create lasting impact.
“When the World Cup came around and Haiti was participating, I wanted to continue that opportunity.”
“The mission of the chamber, in short, is to equip our members with the skills and resources that they need so that they can either start or grow their business.”
Robert discussed the chamber’s role in supporting entrepreneurs throughout Georgia while strengthening commercial relationships between Haiti and the United States.
Today, the organization serves more than 160 members and continues to expand opportunities through training, networking, business development programs, and trade initiatives.
“The intent is not just to be here, to be part of the ecosystem, but to also make a strong contribution towards not just the Haitian community, but the broader community.”
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will bring Haiti to Atlanta for one unforgettable match. But the leaders gathered during Global Atlanta’s conversation made clear that the opportunity extends well beyond the pitch.
From entrepreneurship and trade to culture and community, Atlanta’s Haitian diaspora is seizing its moment and strengthening connections that will continue long after the final whistle.
