The Haiti Cultural Day:
Second Annual Soup Joumou Competition
january 2025 | written By: hyppolite calixte \ Photos by: valcin legacy
On Saturday, January 25, 2025, Ribby's Encore Lounge in Duluth, Georgia, was abuzz with excitement as the YE Foundation hosted the 2nd Annual Haiti Cultural Day: Soup Joumou Competition. This vibrant event celebrated Haitian culture through its iconic dish, Soup Joumou, symbolizing freedom and resilience.
Attendees were treated to a culinary showcase featuring four talented chefs:
Each chef presented their unique rendition of the beloved soup, offering a rich tapestry of flavors for guests to savor.
The competition was fierce, but Chef Wadler emerged victorious, winning over both the judges and attendees with his exceptional Soup Joumou. His dedication to authentic Haitian flavors shone brightly, making him a crowd favorite.
Attendees were treated to a culinary showcase featuring four talented chefs:
- Chef 1804 of 1804 Pizza Bar & Lounge
- Chef Mirna of Mirna's Catering
- Chef Wadler of Silany's Restaurant Lakay
- Chef Mitzi of Fritay Lakay
Each chef presented their unique rendition of the beloved soup, offering a rich tapestry of flavors for guests to savor.
The competition was fierce, but Chef Wadler emerged victorious, winning over both the judges and attendees with his exceptional Soup Joumou. His dedication to authentic Haitian flavors shone brightly, making him a crowd favorite.
The celebration was a true testament to inclusivity and cultural appreciation, as it thoughtfully catered to diverse dietary preferences and traditions. The event even featured a vegetarian Soup Joumou option, prepared by Chantal Auguste, for those who don’t eat meat or are fasting from it. This thoughtful addition not only honored the historical significance of the dish but also ensured that everyone, regardless of their dietary choices, could partake in the rich flavors and cultural spirit of the occasion. Chantal’s creation was a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, showcasing how cultural heritage can be adapted to embrace modern values and inclusivity.

Beyond the culinary delights, the event was a cultural extravaganza. DJ Final kept the energy high with an eclectic mix of tunes, while live performances by Mitou Charles and Mima showcased the rich artistic heritage of Haiti. Konpa dance instructors engaged the crowd, ensuring that everyone, from novices to seasoned dancers, felt the rhythm and joy of the traditional Haitian dance.
The success of the event is a testament to the hard work and vision of YE Foundation's founder, Shirley Xavier, and her dedicated team. Their commitment to promoting Haitian culture and supporting meaningful causes was evident throughout the day.
As attendees departed, they carried with them not just the taste of exquisite Soup Joumou but also a deeper appreciation for Haiti's rich cultural tapestry. The 2nd Annual Haiti Cultural Day was more than just a competition; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, heritage, and the enduring spirit of Haiti.
The success of the event is a testament to the hard work and vision of YE Foundation's founder, Shirley Xavier, and her dedicated team. Their commitment to promoting Haitian culture and supporting meaningful causes was evident throughout the day.
As attendees departed, they carried with them not just the taste of exquisite Soup Joumou but also a deeper appreciation for Haiti's rich cultural tapestry. The 2nd Annual Haiti Cultural Day was more than just a competition; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, heritage, and the enduring spirit of Haiti.

Shirley Xavier, CEO and Board Chair of the YE Foundation, organizer of the Haitian Cultural Day: Soup Joumou Competition, shares this message with us:
“The Haiti Cultural Day: Soup Joumou Competition is more than a celebration - it’s a movement to honor Haitian heritage while raising funds for YE Foundation’s mission to transform global waste into clean energy in underserved countries, starting with Haiti. YEF's inaugural project in Cap Haitien will convert litter and debris into valuable resources that residents need, not only improving their livelihoods but also creating jobs. Initiatives like the annual Soup Joumou Competition, along with community involvement, will help the Foundation achieve this goal sooner than later. Together, we are preserving culture, building community, and driving sustainable change.”
Address: YE Foundation, 3343 Peachtree Road, NE, Ste. 145-672, Atlanta, GA 30326
Phone: (929) 500-5745
Website: https://yef.global/
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yefglobal
Facebook: https://facebook.com/1YEFGlobal
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/104481889/
“The Haiti Cultural Day: Soup Joumou Competition is more than a celebration - it’s a movement to honor Haitian heritage while raising funds for YE Foundation’s mission to transform global waste into clean energy in underserved countries, starting with Haiti. YEF's inaugural project in Cap Haitien will convert litter and debris into valuable resources that residents need, not only improving their livelihoods but also creating jobs. Initiatives like the annual Soup Joumou Competition, along with community involvement, will help the Foundation achieve this goal sooner than later. Together, we are preserving culture, building community, and driving sustainable change.”
Address: YE Foundation, 3343 Peachtree Road, NE, Ste. 145-672, Atlanta, GA 30326
Phone: (929) 500-5745
Website: https://yef.global/
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yefglobal
Facebook: https://facebook.com/1YEFGlobal
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/104481889/
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