EdLight Nexus
Modern exchange journeys that connect Haitian students to global innovation, culture, and opportunity.
A gateway to global immersion
Nexus equips Haitian students with the networks, exposure, and confidence to thrive on the world stage—then reinvest what they learn back home.
Global destinations
France, Spain, Canada, the United States, Panama, and the Dominican Republic.
Student fellows
University leaders representing 10+ Haitian cities and the diaspora since launch.
Average scholarship
Typical tuition coverage secured through Nexus partners and sponsors.
What makes Nexus different
A modern exchange experience built for Haitian students who want to co-create solutions, not just observe them.
Immersive learning labs
Seven-day residencies that combine campus visits, innovation workshops, and curated cultural encounters.
Global leadership network
Meet faculty, founders, and fellow student leaders to design collaborative solutions with real-world impact.
Career readiness
Build communication, strategy, and cross-cultural fluency that translate into internships and fellowships.
Community return plan
Every fellow brings insights home through service projects, peer workshops, or campus changemaker labs.
Featured Host Location
Barcelona Mobility Residency
Fellows explore sustainability and creative entrepreneurship through workshops with ESADE Business School, visits to Barcelona Activa, and cultural labs across the Gothic Quarter. The residency ends with a community pitch night hosted at a partner innovation hub.
Journey
From selection to lasting impact
Each Nexus cohort moves through four curated phases. Fellows receive tailored mentorship, resources, and community support every step of the way.
Discover
We identify emerging Haitian student leaders ready to learn, collaborate, and represent.
- Interest form and profile review
- Virtual info session with alumni mentors
- Values alignment and leadership potential assessment
Prepare
Selected fellows complete pre-departure sprints that cover culture, funding, and storytelling.
- Visa and travel coaching
- Group learning circles and language refreshers
- Customized fundraising and sponsorship toolkit
Immerse
A curated on-the-ground experience that blends academics, innovation, and cultural exchange.
- University labs and entrepreneurship hubs
- Hands-on design challenges with local teams
- Host family dinners and city expeditions
Amplify
Fellows return home to implement impact plans with Nexus mentors and partners.
- Peer-to-peer workshops across Haitian campuses
- Micro-grants for community pilots
- Long-term mentorship and alumni network
Curated pathways for every fellow
Choose a focus area that matches your academic interests and leadership goals.
Academic Immersion
Explore global higher-ed ecosystems and collaborate with faculty on future-focused research.
- STEM and social innovation lectures
- Joint classes with local students
- Capstone pitch with feedback from professors
Leadership & Policy
Understand civic innovation, public policy, and diplomacy through institutional visits.
- Meetings with consulates and embassies
- Roundtables with changemakers and non-profits
- Scenario labs on governance and resilience
Culture & Creative Industries
Experience art, design, and storytelling labs that celebrate identity and creative economies.
- Museums and cultural heritage tours
- Creative entrepreneurship workshops
- Cross-cultural showcases with local artists
Investment & support
We design every cohort so finances are transparent and support is accessible.
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Program fee (learning labs, mentors, site visits) | $650 |
| Shared accommodation (6 nights) | $250 |
| Meals & local transportation | $250 |
| Immersion materials & insurance | $100 |
| Estimated total (excluding flights & visa) | $1,250 |
Airfare ranges from $700 – $1,200 depending on the destination and travel dates. We help fellows explore partnerships and fundraising pathways to close the gap.
Scholarships & sponsorships
Need-based and merit scholarships cover up to 80% of program costs thanks to Nexus partners and donors.
Fundraising playbook
Fellows receive coaching, templates, and mentorship to rally support from networks and local businesses.
Travel concierge
We assist with visa appointments, flights, and travel safety so fellows can stay focused on learning.
Average support impact
3 out of 4 fellows receive partial or full scholarships. Our partners include universities, private donors, and the Haitian diaspora committed to equitable global access.
Alumni perspectives
Stories from Nexus fellows & partners
Nexus is a community. Fellows remain engaged after their residency to mentor the next cohort and co-design new opportunities for Haitian youth.
“Nexus unlocked rooms I never imagined I would enter. I came back with a community of mentors and the courage to launch my own campus initiative.”
Gaëlle, Business Student – 2024 Fellow
“The exchange expanded my worldview and sharpened my leadership. I now mentor the next cohort so more Haitian students can experience this.”
Marc, Engineering Student – 2023 Fellow
“Our partnership with EdLight Nexus is seamless. Haitian fellows arrive prepared, thoughtful, and ready to collaborate on global challenges.”
Program Partner, Paris School of Business
Frequently asked questions
If you still need clarity, send us a note at nexus@edlight.org and the team will respond within 48 hours.
Who can apply?▾
Undergraduate students and recent graduates (within 12 months) of Haitian origin who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to returning impact to Haiti.
Do I need a passport before applying?▾
You can submit interest while your passport is in progress. Our team provides guidance on accelerating documentation and visa requirements once you are shortlisted.
How competitive is the program?▾
Nexus cohorts average a 20% acceptance rate. We evaluate mission alignment, leadership readiness, and representation across disciplines and regions.
What happens after the trip?▾
Fellows join the Nexus alumni guild, receive mentorship for community projects, and gain access to internships, grants, and ongoing professional development.
Join the movement
Bring Nexus to your campus or organization
Cohort applications re-open soon. Let’s design a global experience that elevates Haitian talent and creates lasting partnerships.