Haiti: Cité Soleil's Radio Boukman
This series captures the people behind Radio Boukman, a community radio station serving 300,000 residents in Cité Soleil, one of the most impoverished communities in Port-au-Prince. Founded in 2004 by Jean Liphète Nelson and six others, Radio Boukman was created to bring vital news, education and entertainment to residents.
The radio station is a lifeline, broadcasting political news, community updates, music and educational programming. It operates with limited resources, relying heavily on international donations of equipment and supplies. Despite the challenges, the station’s dedicated staff, including technicians, editors and presenters, persevere in their mission to inform and uplift the community.
This series also honors the legacy of founder Jean Liphète Nelson, who was tragically killed six weeks after these photos were taken in 2012. His vision lives on through the station’s commitment to the community. Community-driven media is essential, providing opportunities for people to share and honor their own stories.
A painted wall outside the station reading 'Radio Boukman 95.9 FM' greets you when you arrive. The community-driven station is a cultural and creative oasis.
Radio Boukman serves 300,000 residents in Cité Soleil, a severely underserved community in Port-au-Prince that's often referred to as "one of the poorest and most dangerous areas of the Western Hemisphere". Founded by Nelson Jean Liphete and six others, the station provides vital news and education where few other services reach.
Sony Vilfranch, a broadcast technician (bottom), and Chrisnold Prophete, the station’s news editor (top), work together to deliver political news and current events to the community. Their work brings critical information to a population with historically poor literacy rates. The radio may be the only way some people get their news. Alerts like hurricane warnings can be life saving, giving residents time to prepare or evacuate.
In addition to news, weather and commentary, the station celebrates Haitian music with a mix of Compas, Raboday, and Creole rap. Guest DJs regularly share new music from up and coming Haitian artists.
Every piece of equipment at Radio Boukman has a story. The soundboard, donated along with other equipment like Apple computers and microphones, is one of the necessary tools the station needs to run.
Placide “MP” Marc Antoine, a DJ, producer and radio host, shares his passion for Creole rap on his show, "Greffe." He's committed to supporting the community he grew up in. Despite leaving Cité Soleil, MP remains deeply connected. “I feel good when I’m there,” he says.
Chrisnold Prophete uses his platform at Radio Boukman to cover stories that matter to the community. His commitment to reporting reflects the station’s mission to serve as a voice for Cité Soleil.
Geneste Gesner, General Secretary, charges his phone before heading back out for a meeting. Gesner discusses his passion for serving the community.
Standing outside the station, Jorel Joachin, the station's Administrator, is the backbone of Radio Boukman. His leadership ensures the station continues to serve as a resource for Cité Soleil.
The Radio Boukman team gather outside for a group photo. From left to right: Chrisnold Prophete, News Editor; Geneste Gesner, General Secretary; Ford Delva, News Presenter; Sony Vilfranch, Broadcast Technician; Goerge Reny, Broadcast Technician; Jorel Joachin, Administrator; Fragil Girlande, Receptionist; Salomon Nelson, Host of "Ayiti Payim" (Haiti, My Country); and Placide "MP" Marc Antoine, DJ/Host of Creole Rap Show, "Greffe."
