Ask the Artisans: Jean Robert

Jean Robert Pluviose is our Production and Design Manager. He works with the artisans on quality control, skills training, creating new designs, and managing incoming orders. He is in charge of materials, inventories, and production; serves as a shareholder in Deux Mains Designs; and is currently training in operations.

“With the money I earn working here, I went to a theology school and became a pastor”

That’s a lot of work, but Jean Robert’s job at Rebuild is only one part of his busy life. Before the earthquake, Jean Robert was studying computer science and working in a computer store. The disaster collapsed the store, and he was left with inconsistent, low-paying jobs in-between long periods of unemployment. His salary at REBUILD globally allowed him to take his life in a new direction. “With the money I earn working here, I went to a theology school and became a pastor, which has really changed my life,” he said.  Along with his busy work schedule, Jean Robert is also engaged to be married very soon and plans on starting a family! “I’m working on building my own house, and I’m glad I’m able to support myself and my future family.” He even pays for his young cousin’s education and has plans to earn a PhD in the future!

When he’s not working, Jean Robert enjoys going into the countryside to preach or work with kids, making and eating spaghetti, and going to the beach! “I love spaghetti,” he said. “I make it at home, sometimes with my family, but sometimes I like to just eat it myself!”

He said that if I visit Haiti I must go to the Citadelle Laferier, a national monument in the northern part of Haiti famous for it’s beautiful views. “Then, I’d like to bring you to Petit Goave where I work to show you my church,” he said.

“It’s really difficult to see that going on, because it destabilizes the country and makes life very hard for everyone just trying to get by.”

Despite all of what Jean Robert enjoys about living in Haiti, he said that life there is not always easy.  “Sometimes I get very emotional when there are movements against the government,” he said. “It’s really difficult to see that going on, because it destabilizes the country and makes life very hard for everyone just trying to get by.”

Jean Robert loves that his job allows him to contribute to his country, and he hopes to help expand REBUILD globally to be recognized worldwide. He enjoys helping people in any way he can, big or small, and his favorite part of his job is when he is able to help others improve the way they work. “It’s a habit of mine to help people grow and get better!” he said.

The Jean Robert sandals from Deux Mains Designs are named after Jean Robert Pluviose, and they are his favorite sandals.  “I like the new Jean Robert sandals because the straps work really well and hold your foot in place,” he said, “and they’re comfortable!”