Meet Carl Fetiere

We recently connected with Carl Fetiere and have shared our conversation below.

Carl, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?

My resilience comes from my heritage and upbringing. Growing up, I was constantly reminded of the strength and courage demonstrated by the adult figures in my life. The rich traditions of Haitian culture—its music, art, and stories—nurture my soul and remind me of the beauty and strength within my identity.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I run a nonprofit organization called YSS Lafwa.

YSS Lafwa is Haitian non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and uplifting underprivileged communities in Haitian communities through a comprehensive range of social services and developmental programs. The organization’s primary purpose is to address critical needs in areas such as education, healthcare, and economic development.

We also offer our annual Young Achiever Scholarship award, in which we give our recipients a chance to further fund their educational career. The exciting part about this, is that I am able to give back to the community that helped mold me into the person I am today.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey, the three qualities that have been most impactful are adaptability, empathy, and a commitment to continuous learning. Adaptability has been crucial, as it has allowed me to navigate new challenges and opportunities, helping me to grow and respond effectively to different situations. Empathy has been essential in connecting with others, understanding their needs, and providing meaningful support, making my interactions more genuine and impactful. Lastly, a commitment to continuous learning has kept me curious and informed, ensuring that I stay up-to-date with new information and skills, which has been vital for personal and professional growth.

The advice I have for folks is to embrace change and uncertainty! There are always opportunities for growth. Challenge yourself by stepping out of your comfort zone regularly, whether through new experiences, taking on different roles, or learning new skills

What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?

The main hurdle I’m grappling with right now is imposter syndrome as a Black man. It’s like this nagging voice that tells me I don’t quite measure up, despite my achievements. I combat it by reminding myself of my successes and the hard work that got me there. Also, having a supportive circle of mentors and peers who get where I’m coming from is a big help. Sharing experiences with others who face similar challenges makes me feel less alone and more capable. Plus, I’m constantly working on my skills and knowledge, because every little bit of growth chips away at that feeling of not being good enough.

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