Lakou Staff

Recently retired as a judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Dave served in the Domestic Relations and Juvenile Justice Divisions for over 20 years. Prior to taking the bench, he spent his legal career at Legal Aid Chicago focusing on housing, domestic relation and domestic violence matters. Dave has been involved with Lakou NFP since its earliest days and served as its board chair since its founding in 2017. The timing was right for him to take on the Executive Director role in April 2024. Despite the incredible challenges in Haiti, Lakou is poised for tremendous growth and progress. He looks forward to continuing to “work hard, in one good direction for a long period of time” for the benefit of Lakou.

Ken is the President and TVET Specialist at ADÜED International Inc., dedicated to enhancing vocational education in developing countries through expert curriculum development, teacher training, and consulting services. Based in New Brunswick, Canada, Ken leads efforts to empower educators and advance adult education globally. As the Interim Director at Lakou NFP in Les Cayes, Haiti, [Name] oversees operations, staff hiring, policy development, and the implementation of competency-based education curriculums for commercial construction. This role includes strategic planning and the execution of educational programs, ensuring students acquire practical skills and industry knowledge. With a focus on hands-on learning, Ken is committed to bridging the skills gap and promoting lifelong learning in Haiti.

Bio coming soon

As founder and CEO of GID Consulting, Eric brings over 15 years of development experience to his role. With a keen focus on securing funding to advance Lakou's impactful initiatives, Eric utilizes his expertise in cultivating relationships to support the organization's vital work. Previously, Eric spearheaded comprehensive grant initiatives, facilitating the acquisition of over $10 million in private and federal funding for his former clients. His dedication to empowering nonprofit leaders through a philanthropic lens has earned him a reputation for fostering enduring relationships with individuals, partners, and sponsors, laying the groundwork for sustained support.

Omar is a doctoral candidate with a wide range of experience in grants services, research, statistical analysis, and more. He works alongside Dr. Lane and Kayla to support Lakou's fundraising efforts. As the Director of Institutional Giving, Omar works on the entire grant process and has a proven track record of success in securing grant funding. Omar ensures that all efforts align with the institution's goals and mission to maximize funding opportunities.

Franckenson Désir is the Vice-Director at Lakou NFP, responsible for the overall operation of the school's commercial construction program in Haiti. With a wealth of experience in adult education, Franckenson plays a crucial role in developing and implementing competency-based curricula. His dedication to the cause of education and TVET is evident in his leadership style and commitment to providing quality vocational training. Under his guidance, Lakou NFP empowers individuals with the practical and theoretical skills needed for the construction industry, contributing significantly to socio-economic development in the region.

Ednel Belzi is a dedicated civil engineer who has been with Lakou since 2022. He primarily teaches mathematics for trades, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his students. Participants at Lakou greatly appreciate his patient teaching approach, which helps them grasp complex mathematical concepts with ease. Ednel's commitment to education and his supportive manner make him a valued member of the Lakou team, significantly contributing to the development and success of his students in their vocational training.

Randy has worked for 35 years in construction, both residential and commercial. He is a journeyman in masonry, carpentry, and concrete. He owned his own business for 15 years, and he has worked in commercial construction in Haiti for 7 years. ​ “I love every aspect of construction, estimate to finish, but mostly I love that I now have the opportunity to teach all of what I have learned. I had no idea how important it was to me to pass something on, especially to those who’ve been on the outside - at least for the moment.”

Coby spent most of his early life in Fort Myers, Florida where he graduated from Cypress Lake High School in 2005. By 2012, Coby was back in Haiti where he met his wife, Stefania. Together with their children, they were neighbors with Founding Directors Randy and LaNae and heard Lakou’s vision to teach Haitians skills to build a beautiful Haiti. Passionate to serve Haiti and its people, Coby enjoys the opportunity to work in Les Cayes and to help make a difference.  ​ “God has blessed me with the right position in Lakou. I enjoy using my skills to support Lakou in accomplishing our mission and learning new things and passing it on to others to help Haiti continue to develop.”

LaNae has many years of experience in sales, mentoring, and tutoring individuals with special needs. As a mother of 6 and grandmother of 5, she has enjoyed opening her home to many people, sharing meals, creating a sense of community, and providing a place to gather. Living in the spirit of Lakou, LaNae works providing community outreach in Les Cayes. ​ “Working within the Haitian communities has given me the opportunity to cultivate my life story to love and walk alongside the people of Haiti.”

Kayla works alongside Dr. Lane to support Lakou's fundraising efforts. She combines her thirteen years of fundraising experience with her education in Business Administration, Marketing, and Disability Studies to create compelling narratives that attract new funders. As a development team, Kayla and Eric work together to ensure Lakou's financial growth through mutually beneficial partnerships with like-minded organizations.

Having worked in the capacity of an administrative assistant for many years, Sue has utilized her organizational skills and detail orientation to help multiple organizations become more efficient. She enjoys the opportunity of assisting Lakou as it equips Haitians with necessary resources to bring positive change. Sue earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Colorado Christian University and currently resides in Florida. ​ “Lakou is having an extraordinary impact on many families in Haiti by bringing hope and dignity, and it is an honor and privilege to have a part in that process.”

As a youth student, Buchman had the opportunity to study photography and videography. Prior to joining the Lakou team, Buchman had been volunteering with several organizations in Haiti, with the goal of helping to build hope for his country. Above all,  Buchman values sharing love with his Haitian brothers and sisters and igniting a passion for social impact.  “I love what Lakou does. When a community has the proper education combined with an attitude of humility and respect--this is how progress happens.”

Jean Wilbert Eliscar is a skilled civil engineer with extensive experience in construction management and training. He earned his degree from the American University of the Caribbean (AUC), Les Cayes. Since August 2023, he has been with Lakou, where participants appreciate his balanced approach to teaching, integrating both theoretical and practical aspects effectively. He has served as an instructor since 2011, a volunteer interpreter since 2012, and managed numerous construction projects, including school rehabilitations and municipal extensions. Proficient in English, French, and Spanish. Jean Wilbert is dedicated to advancing institutions through his expertise in construction and training, contributing significantly to community development in Haiti.