Haitian Beatz

The Grammy Award-Winning Haitian Musician Discusses the Hard Work Needed To Help His Country Recover

LONDON, Feb. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Grammy Award-winning Haitian artist Wyclef Jean spoke to young leaders at the inaugural international youth summit One Young World today. The summit attracted nearly 1,000 young people and has addressed major issues such as climate, health, global business, the future of media, the future of politics and interfaith dialogue.

Jean joined world leaders Kofi Annan, Sir Bob Geldof and Archbishop Desmond Tutu to talk about his experience as a leader, as well as share lessons learned along the way. After the presentation, Jean listened to the young leaders as they shared their own experiences and asked questions.

During the live, interactive satellite address, Jean touched on many important points that relate to young people while also answering questions, several of which related to last month's earthquake in Haiti. 

James Alcime, a Haitian delegate, opened the Q&A session by asking how old and young leaders alike can ensure that Haiti receives the relief aid promised to it. "Ending corruption in Haiti is an important step in ensuring the people who are in need receive help and supplies," said Jean. "It begins with the government and NGOs, including my NGO." 

Jean went on, stating that in order to make an impact, it takes more than money. He made this point in response to 23-year-old Ben and Jerry's ice cream shop owner Antonio McBroom, who asked how he could leverage his initiative—of holding benefit days with proceeds going to Haiti after the disaster—into real help. It takes more than funds, Jean said: "We have to act. We have to put physical participation and mind to the ground to make a change."