Back to Home

Haitian Achievements

Celebrating the remarkable Haitians who shaped history, broke barriers, and made lasting contributions to culture, sports, politics, and the world.

Athletes1997–present

Naomi Osaka

4x Grand Slam Champion

Tennis champion of Haitian and Japanese descent. Four-time Grand Slam singles champion and former world No. 1.

Athletes1981–present

Samuel Dalembert

13-year NBA career

Professional NBA basketball player from Port-au-Prince who played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Sacramento Kings, and other teams over a 13-year career.

Athletes1967–present

Bruny Surin

Olympic Gold Medalist

Haitian-Canadian sprinter and Olympic gold medalist in the 4×100m relay at the 1996 Atlanta Games. Former 100m world record holder indoors.

Athletes1975–present

Dudley Dorival

First Black U.S. Olympic Swim Coach

Haitian-American swimming coach and former swimmer who became the first Black head coach of a U.S. Olympic swimming team in 2024.

Athletes1989–present

Jozy Altidore

U.S. National Team Star

Haitian-American soccer forward who represented the U.S. Men's National Team and played in the English Premier League and MLS.

Athletes1976–present

Festivela Gourdet (Top Chef)

Top Chef All-Stars Winner

Gregory Gourdet, Haitian-American chef and Top Chef finalist, celebrated for blending Haitian flavors with modern cuisine.

Politiciansc. 1745–1818

Jean-Baptiste Point du Sable

Founder of Chicago

Haitian-born trader recognized as the founder of Chicago. Established the first permanent settlement in what became one of America's greatest cities.

Politicians1975–present

Mia Love

First Black Republican Congresswoman

Haitian-American who became the first Black Republican woman elected to the U.S. Congress, representing Utah's 4th congressional district.

Politicians1900–1953

Dumarsais Estimé

Champion of Workers' Rights

President of Haiti (1946–1950) who championed the noiriste movement, advocating for the Black middle class and expanding workers' rights.

Submit an Accomplishment

Know a Haitian who made history? Submit their accomplishment to help us build a more complete archive.