Thimothee may be soft-spoken, but he is unreserved about his passion for Extollo International and the second chance he received through Extollo's training programs.

Extollo graduate Jean Thimothee now working on the Port Lafito project.

Four years ago, Thimothee had little hope for the future. Out of despair and desperation following his father's death, he boarded a migrant boat for Miami. The seas were rough and the boat was forced to anchor on a small island. Thinking they had reached their destination, the boat's occupants celebrated. Then they saw the dogs followed by Bahamas immigration agents.

Many were mistreated and beaten in detention. But Thimothee wasn’t afraid; he was ready to die if his time had come. His life in Haiti had become so unbearable; he was ready to accept whatever lay ahead. But when he was returned to Haiti, it seemed like his risk had been for nothing.

Thimothee was raised on the “Saline”, the impoverished salt flats of La Gonave Island.

Back on La Gonave, he learned that Extollo was looking for recruits for a training program. The enrollment process was challenging. He was concerned the recruiter would consider him unfit to participate, judging him by his small physique, not his heart and determination. But, he was undeterred and said, “No problem, I will work, knowing that my performance will prove my talents. These guys will see that I can learn to do what they do, fast.”

The training began and from the first day he excelled. He worked through the coursework qualifying as one of the top five masons and he was hired onto the project. Determined to continue learning, he joined Extollo’s training programs for concrete, carpentry and electrical.

Thimothee is promoted to Trainer on the Haiti Partners project in Baocia.

Today, Thimothee is an accomplished Extollo graduate whose skills are in demand at Port Lafito. He is a team leader and a trainer. He supports his family and has built them a small studio house, which they call home. He is proud of his independence and his accomplishments.

Thank you for the new start in life you’ve given Jean Thimothee through your support.

Meet the Team: Jean Thimothee