By: Alex Popa
Phiautha Eulodie Dantiste was born and raised in Thomassin, Haiti, and has been living in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, for nearly a decade. Being Haitian is central to her identity, shaping how she views the world.
Three key figures inspire Phiautha: her late grandmother, whom she lovingly remembers as “Dada,” her strict yet generous mother, and her young son, who reminds her daily to stop, breathe, and enjoy life’s moments.
Education and Professional Journey
Phiautha moved to Canada to pursue her studies, but ultimately decided to stay after meeting her soulmate. She now works in the immigration field as the executive director of the “Réseau de l’immigration francophone du Nouveau-Brunswick.”
Phiautha dedicates her role to improving the immigration continuum and enhancing the experience of newcomers in New Brunswick. Her work involves frequent travel and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, which she thoroughly enjoys.
Cultural advocacy and accomplishments
Phiautha is deeply committed to preserving and promoting Haitian and Afro-Caribbean culture in her community. She co-founded the association “We Are One” with a friend, which celebrates its fourth edition this year.
This festival has grown significantly under her leadership, and she recently became the president of the association. The success of “We Are One” is a testament to her dedication to cultural preservation, and she takes pride in seeing the festival’s impact on the community.
In addition to her work with “We Are One,” Phiautha is also an artist. She has participated in poetry festivals, showcasing her poetic talent, and is working on publishing her first book.
She has also been involved in the film industry, producing and acting in short films featured at the Moncton Film Festival (FICFA).
Goals and Vision for the Future
In the next 12 months, Phiautha hopes to publish her book and continue sharing her love for Haitian culture. Her long-term goal is to offer dance classes and cultural workshops, helping younger generations in the diaspora stay connected to their roots.
She believes that understanding and embracing their heritage will strengthen their identity, even as they navigate the complexities of living between French and English cultures.
Platform and advocacy.
Phiautha’s passion for Haitian culture is undeniable. If given a platform, she would use it to teach others about the richness and depth of Haitian culture. She rejects the narrative that “Ayiti fini” (Haiti is finished) and believes that as long as Haitians choose hope, there is always a path forward.
She is already spreading this message in her daily life, encouraging fellow Haitians to embrace their heritage and take pride in their identity.
Hobbies and fun.
As a young mother in a foreign country, Phiautha finds it challenging to carve out time for fun. However, dancing remains her true passion, and despite her busy life, she never stops moving to the rhythm of her Haitian roots.
Through her work, artistry, and advocacy, Phiautha Eulodie Dantiste is making a lasting impact on both the Haitian community and the broader immigrant population in New Brunswick.
