Champion for Change: Melick Derius

Melick Derius has been managing the supply depot at Justinien University Hospital’s pediatrics facility since 2016. He was hired by Konbit Sante in response to mortality reviews that revealed a high number of preventable infant deaths were caused by the absence of essential medications and supplies. Melick keeps track of the stockroom to ensure that stock-outs of emergency materials do not occur, and develops monthly inventory reports.

In 2018, a new pediatrics facility was built at JUH with funds provided by the United States Agency for International Development. With its complicated infrastructure, the new facility required a greater degree of maintenance and oversight than was previously needed. To meet this need, JUH hired a new facilities manager, engineer Josette Martial, in 2019, and in 2020, Melick was promoted to the role of assistant facility manager to help Josette in this important task.

In addition to his stockroom duties in the pediatrics building, Melick monitors the oxygen supply and water maintenance system; keeps records of medical equipment in need of repair; assists with routine maintenance, operations, and infrastructure inspections; and more.

“Melick has been an absolutely hard and conscientious worker,” said former Konbit Sante Executive Director Nate Nickerson. “He understands the direct impact of his work on the lives of the children under the care of the service, and is passionate about doing his part to give them a better chance for health.”

Konbit Sante Administrator Dominique Joseph concurs. “Melick is always at his best, and is very motivated,” he said. “He is in great demand by the (JUH pediatrics) staff.”

Originally from Pilate in the Nord Department of Haiti, Melick currently resides in Cap-Haitien with his wife and 12-year-old son. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family and playing soccer with his son—both are big fans of the Real Madrid soccer team from Spain.

He says his greatest satisfaction comes from helping families receive healthcare at JUH, especially those who cannot pay. When an infant is saved with the help of emergency medicines and/or supplies that he stocks, he is filled with pride.

“My work is important to saving people’s lives,” Melick said. “When I go home, I am full of joy in my heart.”