On Jan. 1, 2026, the 7th Annual Soup Joumou Celebration brought residents together to commemorate the 222nd anniversary of Haiti’s independence. The event, co-sponsored by North Miami Councilwoman Mary Estimé-Irvin and Miami-Dade Commissioner Marleine Bastien, welcomed nearly 350 attendees for a day of cultural connection and live musical performances.
Building on the event’s impact, Councilwoman Estimé-Irvin this year introduced the Freedom Essay Contest, inviting middle school students to share what Soup Joumou means to them.
This year’s celebration also marked the beginning of North Miami’s centennial celebrations, leading up to the city’s 100th anniversary in May.
Various elected officials and civic leaders were in attendance, including School Board member Dr. Steve Gallon, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, State Sen. Shevrin Jones, State Rep. Wallace Aristide, North Miami Mayor Alix Desulme, representatives from the Consulate of Haiti, and more.
Co-hosted by Meca AKA Grimo and Stichiz, the program included a surprise appearance by international recording artist Alan Cavé, a rendition of the National Anthems by Linda ‘Porsha’ Estimé, and a history-inspired fashion presentation by Phelicia Dell. The celebration was further elevated by the appearance of Miss Universe Haiti and the recognition of this year’s honorees, who included Phelicia Dell, Sandra Toussaint-Phanor, Dr. Naomi Esther Blemur, Marckenson Jeanty, Calvin Hughes, Michael McDearmaid and Guylene Berry.
(Courtesy of Hip Rock Star)
(Courtesy of Hip Rock Star)
(Courtesy of Hip Rock Star)
(Courtesy of Hip Rock Star)