Jacques Kelly Durandisse

Agronomy ‘10

Jacques is a procurement specialist at the local Water Department and a passionate entrepreneur focused on sustainable development. He is the co-founder of MaxiMax and the creator of Leriche Miel, a beekeeping and honey production project based in Léogâne.

Through Leriche Miel, Jacques trains local residents in environmentally friendly techniques that generate income while preserving natural resources. His initiative was awarded a $10,000 grant from Digicel’s “Working Together for Change” program in 2018, recognizing its impact on both community livelihoods and environmental sustainability.

Jacques credits his time at H.E.L.P. with providing the support that allowed him to fully focus on his academic and professional growth. Freed from concerns about food, housing, and school supplies, he became one of the top five students in his university class of over 100. He spent countless hours in the H.E.L.P. library and computer lab, determined to make the most of the opportunity. Today, Jacques applies that same work ethic and vision in both the public and private sectors. His work not only contributes to essential water services but also creates local economic opportunities through agriculture. Most importantly, Jacques is proud to be in a position to give back—supporting his mother in retirement and empowering his community.