Rigor, determination and discipline barely scratch the surface of defining our very own Madame Fredeline Calixe who serves as the accountant to our Pignon office. She did not begin her career in the Development sector, but rather in Politics!
A serious and inquisitive learner, she pursued classical studies in her early educational career and eventually studied Legal Science at the School of Law in Gonaives. Passionate about politics from a young age, Madame Fredeline landed her first job at the office of the Provisional Electoral Council in Pignon as administrative secretary, a role that has prepared her well for leadership and management in her current role at Haiti Outreach.
Both respected and appreciated by her colleagues, she is often called “Grandma Fred.” Don’t let the name fool you though, for when it comes to issuing money, she is known as “the Iron Lady;” a nick-name she welcomes! Knowing that for every penny she spends she would be accountable, she stated: “I prefer to look like Margaret Thatcher when I manage the accounting and finances of an institution. I can afford to be liberal with my own funds, but not with the money of the organization. It’s my commitment.”
Not only is she book smart but people savvy too. She recognizes that power is fragile and that bad things often come from within. She believes that, “you have to be very firm with yourself because otherwise you can fall into any trap.”
While she works diligently as our accountant during the day, that is not her only occupation. In the evening she provides legal consulting and takes care of the education and rearing of her adopted son.
Even though she admits she is not a field person, “Grandma Fred” is a great boss who is not afraid to assume responsibility. She expressed: “I have worked a lot to be able to evolve. It is an honor to be born a woman and to be proud of it. We have learned that women are able to change everything for the better.”
Madame Fredeline has indeed overcome several difficulties in her life and remains a great example of courage and resilience.