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Pherton Casimir, a young Haitian, developed a passion for the development of his country and community at a young age during his studies in law. He co-founded the Debate and Scientific Research Club (CDERS) at his university, providing a platform for young people to reflect on community challenges and propose solutions. Pherton faced numerous challenges related to accessing a healthy and relevant educational environment, motivating him to become a change-maker for his community. 

In 2021, Pherton completed a training in Media and Information Literacy, which heightened his awareness of the impact of new technologies and artificial intelligence. Confronted with the significant challenge of misinformation, he realized the necessity for young people and students, particularly in developing countries and small communities, to be trained in Media and Information Literacy. To address this global challenge, Pherton, along with other MIL enthusiasts, established the Media and Information Volunteer Network, which later evolved into the Haitian Observatory of the Information Society (OHSI).

According to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), 78% of the global population aged 10 and above owned a mobile phone in 2023, facilitating the circulation of all kinds of information.

Given his expertise, Pherton, along with his colleagues Lanre Olagunju, an expert in open-source intelligence from Nigeria, and Andzongo Blaise Pascal, Africa Representative at UNESCO MIL Alliance, trained young leaders from the SDG4 Youth & Student Network on verifying information. Leaders have a strong influence on others, making it essential for young leaders to be role models in presenting accurate, fact-based information. 

“Media and Information Literacy allows us to navigate an information-saturated environment with awareness. Today, the majority of people have access to the internet, which offers many opportunities but also exposes them to the risks of misinformation, manipulation, and privacy violations. The more technology advances, the harder it becomes to combat misinformation. No matter our background or field, we must all be equipped to analyze, verify, and share information responsibly,” said Pherton. “That’s why, since 2021, I have been advocating for Media and Information Literacy to be integrated at all levels, especially in educational curricula, so that from an early age, we can develop critical thinking when facing information. For me, MIL is not just a set of skills, but a culture we must all adopt.”

“I would like young people to become aware of the power they hold in their hands. As the most connected and influential group in the digital space, young people have the capacity to become true change-makers. My dream is to see young people who are not manipulated by misinformation, who question, verify, and use the media to promote positive initiatives. I want them to leverage the opportunities offered by the internet instead of getting swept away by its dangers,” Pherton concluded.