The Barbancourt Foundation, a non-profit organization spearheaded by the Rhum Barbancourt distillery, has named Haitian actor and philanthropist Jimmy  Jean-Louis as its official ambassador.

In his new role, the award-winning Haitian actor will work to raise the visibility of the Barbancourt Foundation’s projects and how it is working to uplift its community and the population at large, according to a news release.

“Jimmy Jean-Louis is a source of pride for all Haitians, an accomplished artist who showcases our heritage  around the world,” Delphine Gardere, President of the Barbancourt Foundation, said. “Through his own philanthropic work, he has a deep understanding of our mission to better the conditions of our community through education, health, arts, and sports. We are pleased to  collaborate with him toward this common goal.” 

Since the late 1990s, the organization has worked actively to give back to the community through projects related to education, public health, environmental protection, culture, and support to the arts. 

The organization recently signed a five-year partnership with HELP (Haitian Education Leadership Program) to fund university scholarships for Haitian students. The Barbancourt Foundation was also at the forefront of the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic by working with Partners In Health to provide much-needed generators and x-ray machines to hospitals and health centers. The Barbancourt Foundation is currently engaged in community development projects with the construction of new sports fields, computer labs, full-service health clinics and environmental protection through recycling initiatives. 

“I am very proud to collaborate with Barbancourt, known for its excellence and  commitment to community, It is probably the most reputable brand of the country,” Jean-Louis said.

Jimmy recently wrapped a lead in the upcoming feature “Assassin’s Club” starring opposite Henry Golding, Noomi  Rapace and Sam Neill. He also stars in the Netflix Original feature “Citation” in a performance that garnered him the  Best Actor Award at the prestigious Africa Movie Academy Awards 2020. Jean-Louis also serves as Haitian Ambassador at Large.