About Us

Honoring our Roots.
Building the Future.
Empowering the Diaspora.

The Nanny & Dessalines Initiative (NDI) is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to elevating entrepreneurs, empowering youth, and strengthening communities throughout Jamaica, Haiti, and the global diaspora.

We bridge the gap between the diaspora and the homeland by transforming skills, knowledge, and resources into real, measurable impact, while supporting those ready to return home and rebuild through our Homecoming values of connection, belonging, and guided transition.

NDI stands proudly on the legacy of two of the greatest leaders in Caribbean history: Queen Nanny of the Maroons and Jean-Jacques Dessalines, whose courage, innovation, discipline, and commitment to liberation inspire everything we do.

Honoring our Roots.
Building the Future.
Empowering the Diaspora.

The Nanny & Dessalines Initiative (NDI) is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to elevating entrepreneurs, empowering youth, and strengthening communities throughout Jamaica, Haiti, and the global diaspora.

We bridge the gap between the diaspora and the homeland by transforming skills, knowledge, and resources into real, measurable impact, while supporting those ready to return home and rebuild through our Homecoming values of connection, belonging, and guided transition.

NDI stands proudly on the legacy of two of the greatest leaders in Caribbean history: Queen Nanny of the Maroons and Jean-Jacques Dessalines, whose courage, innovation, discipline, and commitment to liberation inspire everything we do.

Our Mission

To provide accessible business education, leadership development, and community-centered training that equips the Caribbean diaspora and emerging entrepreneurs to build sustainable enterprises, strengthen their communities, and create lasting economic change in their home countries. Our mission also includes encouraging and supporting members of the diaspora living abroad to return home, reinvest, and help build a stronger future for the generations to come.

Our Vision

A world where returning diasporans, youth, and local entrepreneurs are equipped to build thriving businesses, strengthen their communities, and uplift the next generation, creating a cycle of empowerment that transforms nations.

Our Story:

The Nanny & Dessalines Legacy

NDI is rooted in the spirit of resistance, leadership, and nation-building exemplified by Queen Nanny of the Maroons and Jean-Jacques Dessalines. Their lives represent courage, discipline, innovation, and liberation, values that guide every program, partnership, and initiative we create.

Our work honors their legacy by empowering modern leaders, entrepreneurs, and youth to build sustainable futures grounded in purpose, pride, and responsibility.

Our Impact & Focus Areas

Through our programs, NDI is actively working to:

  • Increase entrepreneurship success rates
  • Improve community economic stability
  • Provide opportunities for youth
  • Support businesses in underserved areas
  • Strengthen connections between diaspora and homeland
  • Equip leaders with professional development and certifications

This is more than a nonprofit, it’s a movement for change.

Who We Serve

  • New and aspiring entrepreneurs
  • Small business owners
  • Diaspora professionals returning home
  • Youth future leaders
  • Community groups
  • Schools and local organizations
  • Underserved populations seeking opportunity

Our Partners & Sponsors

Our Partners & Sponsors

Meet Our Leadership Team

Jessica Brown

Program Director

Mark Evans

Community Organizer

Sara Lee

Program Coach

James Carter

Finance Advisor