Ivenine Luc is a 22-year-old young woman living in “Cite Soley” with her mother and her child. Cite Soley is considered as one of the poorest and most feared slums in Haiti. She had to stop school when she was in 11th grade and became pregnant at the age of 17. Since her parent could not pay for her school fees, she had to stop studying.
She serves as a mentor working with an organization name SAKALA - which raises girls’ awareness about the power of having children. With SAKALA, she also works with children sharing techniques about city gardening. She describes herself as a very courageous young woman and a leader. She likes to encourage children to believe in their dreams, to stay in school, and avoid having a child before they are ready and able to take care of a child.
She is also the chairman of the “Good Local Product” that is an agricultural enterprise consisting of four other young women living in conditions similar to hers. They produce olive oils and olive powders. Her business helps her to take care of her child.
Ivenine is still holding on to her dream of completing her education and taking some advanced training that will allow her to help herself, her family, and the community.