Staff Feature: Soulouque Jean Vladimir

As we approach the year anniversary of the assassination of President Jovenel, we also want to remember that Haiti is full of beautiful and talented people. Soulouque Jean Vladimir, or just Vladimir as people call him, is one of these talented artisans whose craft brings light into this world.

Vladimir is a Haitian metal artisan who learned the craft from his father, alongside his brother who makes metal art as well. He once owned a shop until recently when it had to be shut down due to gang violence. Still, he continues hand-making metal art out of recycled metal drums for various vendors and for Mission Made Jewelry, which you can shop at any of our markets, as well as on our website.

Vladimir met Becky about 6 years ago when she and her colleagues were visiting the village where he worked. They entered the shop where he made metal art in the district of Noailles in Croix des Bouquets, which is a suburb of Port-au-Prince. One of the staff loved a piece of metal art and wanted to buy it, but it wasn’t for sale yet. Vladimir fixed it to perfection for them and they loved it so much that Haiti Awake still has good relations with Vladimir to this day.

When Vladimir isn’t making metal art you can find him playing soccer, although he really does love making metal art! Other than metal art, he also loves the city of Gros Morne in Haiti, which has a beautiful scenic view with green mountains surrounding city life.

At the end of the day, we want to remind everyone who buys a piece of art, that each piece represents hope and entrepreneurship, allowing a young family in Haiti to make their own way and live with dignity. His hard work does not go unnoticed, and Mission Made Jewelry is committed to making sure that does not happen.