About the Peace Academy
A youth-led organization building peace, strengthening dialogue, and empowering the next generation of leaders in Haiti and the Caribbean.
Who We Are
The Peace Academy is a youth-led organization
founded in June 2024 by Bernsy Vanes Saint-Jacques in response to rising tensions and increasing social instability in Haiti and along the Haiti–Dominican Republic borders. The organization was created to equip young people with practical skills in peacebuilding, dialogue facilitation, and conflict resolution, while fostering collaboration between communities, institutions, and regional actors. Through its programs and initiatives, the Peace Academy transforms youth from observers of conflict into active agents of peace.
Mission
To advance peacebuilding and inclusive governance by equipping youth with the skills, knowledge, and platforms needed to foster dialogue, prevent conflict, and strengthen communities.
Vision
To become a leading youth-driven peacebuilding institution in Haiti and the Caribbean, shaping a generation of leaders committed to sustainable peace and social cohesion
Purpose
To bridge divides, empower youth leadership, and transform conflict into opportunities for collaboration, resilience, and long-term development.
To bridge divides, empower youth leadership, and transform conflict into opportunities for collaboration, resilience, and long-term development.
Values
Dialogue and Inclusion • Youth Empowerment • Integrity and Accountability • Collaboration and Partnership • Action-Oriented Impact
Our Approach
The Peace Academy operates through a structured and action-oriented approach focused on leadership development, community engagement, research, and policy advocacy. We combine grassroots initiatives with institutional partnerships to ensure that local impact translates into sustainable national and regional change
Organizational Structure
The Peace Academy operates through a structured governance model designed to ensure transparency, efficiency, and strategic impact.

Leadership & Secretariat

Bernsy Vanes SAINT-JACQUES
Special Representative for Peace and SDGsMr Saint-Jacques is a visionary youth leader and social entrepreneur from Haiti who majored in economics, he is recognized for advancing youth participation in peacebuilding and governance. In his role he provides overall strategic direction, represents the organization at national and regional and international levels, and ensures alignment with SDG 16 and the Youth, Peace & Security agenda.
Operations & Administration LeadOversees the day-to-day operations and administrative functions of the organization. Ensures effective coordination of activities, manages logistics and internal processes, and supports the smooth implementation of programs and initiatives. Plays a key role in maintaining organizational efficiency, accountability, and structure.
Programs CoordinatorDesigns and implements training programs, workshops, and peacebuilding initiatives. Ensures that activities are impactful, well-structured, and aligned with the organization’s mission.
Communications & Outreach Lead Manages public communication, social media, and visibility strategies. Strengthens the organization’s presence and engagement with communities and stakeholders.
Technology & Digital Systems LeadOversees the organization’s digital infrastructure, including website management, data systems, and online platforms. Ensures smooth digital operations, supports communication tools, and enhances the organization’s technological capacity.
Partnerships, Engagement & External Relations Lead Leads the organization’s external relations by developing strategic partnerships and managing stakeholder engagement. Oversees the ambassador network, strengthens institutional collaborations, and ensures a consistent and credible organizational image. Contributes to expanding the Academy’s visibility, influence, and impact at national and regional levels.
