Learn about what Ziky is accomplishing at Kids Alive International in Haiti!
Nurturing Hearts and Minds in Haiti
For 15 years, Ziky Hypolia has served faithfully with Kids Alive International in Haiti, currently leading as a director. From her early days as an assistant teacher in 2010 to taking on roles of increasing leadership, Ziky has lived out her passion for education and her calling to change lives through it.
"Growing up, I have always wanted to become a teacher because I had learned that education is powerful to change lives," she shared. "I desired to be part of that mission by planting seeds of hope in my students’ lives."
Ziky's dedication is especially evident in how she responds to challenges in her role. Ensuring academic success requires close collaboration with teachers, students, and families.
"My team and I implement strategies to help us achieve our goals," she explained. One such strategy included short evaluation sessions prior to final exams, allowing students to gain confidence and familiarity with the process.
Working alongside the school’s student behavior dean, Ziky also helps reinforce the school's code of conduct. "Our biggest challenge is ensuring that parents respect the disciplinary code. To address this, we never get tired of repeating the rules and emphasizing the importance of working hand in hand with the school staff."
Among the many impactful programs at KAI Haiti, the weekly Friday prayer service holds a special place in Ziky’s heart. Aimed at preschool through 2nd-grade students, the program nurtures transformative spiritual growth.
"They are very active and fully engaged in learning the Word of God," Ziky said. "They ask questions and actively participate in praise and prayer. They also memorize and recite the Bible verses we teach them with great ease."
She sees this spiritual nourishment as a clear demonstration of God's work in their lives: "These children had a deep need for this, and God continually shows us how much He delights in this ministry."
When asked what she would say to someone interested in nonprofit work, Ziky offered this advice: "Be ready to give your best and put your heart in your task. Be a good example for every child or adult you serve. Show them that God is real by your behavior."
Ziky's leadership style embodies the heart of KAI’s mission: "Justice that heals. Bonds that mend."
"In my role, I work closely with the student behavior dean of the school. That means I also get to be around the children who may violate our school code of conduct. If you mishandle these situations, you may end up with many hurt students," she shared. "To avoid that, this tagline is our daily tool. It helps us keep harmony between everyone in the community."
Through joy, wisdom, and faithful service, Ziky continues to be a steady light in the lives of children and families in Haiti—a true reflection of the healing justice and restorative bonds Kids Alive seeks to bring to every community it serves.
