World’s First Bitcoin Philanthropy Nonprofit for Social Futbol – FutbolTech, a 501(c)(3). Read more
World’s First Bitcoin Philanthropy Nonprofit for Social Futbol – FutbolTech, a 501(c)(3). Read more
Ernst Marie Jean-Baptiste, widely known as ZeNono, is a legendary figure in Haitian football. Born on April 18, 1956, in Limbé, Haiti, his life reflects the extraordinary power of sport to unite communities, inspire leadership, and ignite social change.
ZeNono began his football journey early. At just 15, he debuted with the first team of Violette AC. In 1975, he joined Victory SC of Haiti on loan.
His talent opened doors in the United States, where he competed for Miami Dade College in the late 1970s.
From 1980 to 1983, he played for several teams in the American Soccer League and related leagues, including the Miami Americans, New England Sharks, and Fort Lauderdale Strikers. He ended his professional career in 1984 with the Fort Lauderdale Sun.
On the international stage, ZeNono represented Haiti’s national team from 1976 to 1981, earning 16 caps and scoring one goal.
After retiring as a player, ZeNono transitioned into coaching and development. Between 1984 and 1989, he led the Miami Dade College men’s soccer program, reaching two national finals and winning the prestigious Miami Copa Latina five times.
In the early 1990s, he took charge of the Haitian national team (1991–1992 and briefly in 1999), helping shape a new generation of players with his leadership and experience.
A defining moment in his legacy came in 2004, when ZeNono played a central role in organizing the iconic “Game of Peace”—a friendly match between Brazil and Haiti held in Port-au-Prince to promote unity and hope during a period of national tension.
The event became a powerful symbol of solidarity and remains one of the most meaningful moments in Haiti’s football history.
Beyond coaching, ZeNono has contributed significantly to sports governance. He served as Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Civic Action in Haiti.
In 2015, he announced his candidacy for the FIFA presidency, advocating for fairness, transparency, and stronger representation for emerging football nations—rooted in the belief that former players must have a greater voice in the game’s future.
Today, Ernst “ZeNono” Jean-Baptiste proudly serves as a FutbolTech Ambassador, contributing his experience, character, and commitment to social progress.
His journey inspires young people, promotes community cohesion, and reinforces FutbolTech’s mission to transform lives through football, technology, and education.