Ronel LeFranc

Agronomy ‘14

Ronel is the assistant program director at the Partnership for Local Development, where he supports community-led development initiatives across Haiti. He is also the CEO and co-founder of ACTIVEH, a civic organization that provides university students with internships, professional development, and networking opportunities. Through ACTIVEH, Ronel works to bridge the gap between academic learning and job market readiness, especially for students who lack access to career guidance. His efforts are rooted in the belief that developing strong, local leadership is essential to Haiti’s future.

Ronel earned a degree from Quisqueya University and went on to complete a Master’s in Global Development at St. John’s University. His commitment to giving back was shaped during his time at H.E.L.P., where leadership training emphasized the urgency of reversing Haiti’s brain drain.

With the H.E.L.P. services—including housing, academic resources, and community—Ronel overcame the barriers that had made his high school years difficult. He often reflects on how essential that support was, especially for students from rural areas like himself. Today, he uses his education and leadership skills to empower others and promote sustainable change. Ronel’s work reflects H.E.L.P.’s mission: building a generation of leaders who serve their communities and their country.