Catherine Parrill

Catherine Parrill is the founder and CEO of Creative Exchanges Initiative (CEI), an organization that primarily works in Haiti and the United States.12 As a cross-cultural consultant, facilitator, speaker, and author, Parrill's work extends globally beyond her role at CEI.23

Parrill's career has been significantly shaped by her experiences in Haiti. She has been involved in development work in the country for many years, during which she gained valuable insights into the challenges and pitfalls of international aid efforts.1 Her work with CEI reflects a shift in approach to development work, emphasizing locally-led and driven grassroots efforts.1

Key aspects of Catherine Parrill's work and philosophy include:

1. Emphasis on Haitian-led development: CEI partners with a Haitian nonprofit called Action Pour Sauver Haiti (APSHA), ensuring that their joint work is entirely Haitian-led, driven, implemented, and managed.1

2. Advocacy for a new narrative in charitable work: Parrill promotes a model where the beneficiaries of aid drive the narrative and decision-making processes, rather than external donors or organizations.1

3. Cross-cultural expertise: Her role often involves being a conduit for voices from Haiti to reach international audiences, leveraging her access to resources and language skills.1

4. Speaking and consulting: Beyond her work with CEI, Parrill engages in speaking engagements and consulting work on a global scale.23

5. Writing: She is also an author, contributing to discussions on international development and cross-cultural understanding.3

Parrill's approach to development work is rooted in her experiences and reflections on the limitations of traditional aid models. She advocates for a transformation in how international aid and development efforts are conducted, emphasizing local leadership and sustainable, community-driven solutions.14