Preparing for Future Service
Ralph Benshy Pomponus grew up in challenging circumstances marked by instability and financial hardship. His hometown of Carrefour is one of the most dangerous areas of Haiti, and has become a stronghold of gang violence; he saw a rise in insecurity his preteen years. He remained determined to excel academically. He enters university with the HELP program at the American University of the Caribbean in Les Cayes as part of the graduating class of 2030.
Ralph is studying agronomy, in the field of study of agriculture. He is passionate about reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and the role of farming in Haiti’s economic renewal. He dreams of helping to transform rural communities in Haiti, and sees this as service to Haiti's future.
He believes strongly that success does not require leaving Haiti; instead, he sees responsibility and opportunity in staying to contribute to long-term solutions.
Ralph believes his scholarship is a life-changing opportunity. His aspirations are guided by a desire to uplift his mother, siblings, and his aunt, who supported him despite having limited means herself. He is motivated, responsible, and determined to be among the best in his field. He is eager to complete his studies and begin working in the agriculture sector to help Haiti prosper!
We are incredibly proud that Ralph is the first recipient of the Barger Family HELP Scholarship! The Barger Family HELP Scholarship was created in 2024 to honor HTF's Founders, Rick and Harriet Barger, and their commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders in the United States, Haiti, and beyond. From the inception of HTF, they believed that Haiti's success depends on the strength of its young people, specifically individuals like Ralph.
Rick and Harriet Barger had the opportunity to meet Ralph and visit with this year's incoming HELP Freshman students in Les Cayes on their recent trip to Haiti in January 2026.