When Wesly Jean Simon migrated from Haiti to the United States, he quickly created a home to live his dream amid Haiti’s political instability, natural calamities, and lack of economic opportunities. Fueled by passion and love for his native country, he wanted to assist other Haitians and Caribbean immigrants who like himself, needed a haven to pursue their aspirations.
In his quest for the greatest avenue to help others, he founded a Haitian restaurant in Brooklyn, New York, and created opportunities for the Caribbean and black communities while using his culinary skills to provide a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Zanmi, the name of his restaurant, translates to “friends” in Haitian creole and represents its amicable atmosphere for those who want to enjoy authentic Haitian cuisine, melodious music, and distinctive art.
“If you look at what’s happening in Haiti right now, we have no culture and home, with all the turmoil going on down there, so we decided to create a home for all the Haitians that are traveling all over the world,” Wesly explained.
With 15 years of expertise in the food industry working at restaurants such as Burger King, TGIF, and Olive Gardens, Wesly is living his dream of helping Caribbean immigrants and building Black communities in one of the toughest cities in which to make it.
From hosting community-building events to showcasing artists who contribute to the creative sectors in New York City, Wesly’s restaurant has been a platform for emerging voices – even for those vying for elected offices that will impact the community.
“We’re not about taking money from the community, we’re about growing the community while offering them good food,” he said proudly.
He also shared that he has collaborated with the fire and police departments to create safer zones for the neighborhood as he believes it is important for the Blacks and Caribbean people to make a significant difference.
While he is praised for his efforts and the success of his business, he shared that he does not celebrate his current accomplishments, but instead remains focused on his goal-impacting lives.
“I don’t pat myself on the back because as soon as you pat yourself on the back you lose the bigger picture… I want to keep driving and inspire more people around me to do the same,” Wesly said humbly.
Zanmi, which has also inspired other Caribbean businesses in Brooklyn, has resulted in more restaurants offering fine dining. With these new developments, Wesly intends to offer consultations to new restaurant owners while assisting in writing menus and establishing their businesses with unique concepts.
He also expressed the need for more Black-owned businesses so that Black communities can achieve better financial stability and establish their brand names.
To accomplish this, Wesly encourages Caribbean immigrants and those of the Black community to work hard to fulfill their dreams and take advantage of opportunities that will allow them to leave their mark.
“[If] you want to do something, stay focused, and keep your eyes on the prize, don’t let anything stop you because you’re not at home so you got to create a home,” he encouraged.
Though the Haitian chef has constructed a home for himself and is living his dream, he shared that he has a bigger goal – giving back to Haiti by opening a restaurant and teaching Haitian children how to be successful chefs and business owners.
With this as part of his retirement plan, Wesly Jean Simon seeks to leave his imprint in New York City while changing the narratives of those in his homeland.
