A glamorous evening unfolded as supporters, sponsors, and well-wishers gathered to commemorate a significant milestone for Olympian Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s Pocket Rocket Foundation.

The foundation, renowned for its unwavering commitment to championing positive change, celebrated 10 years of remarkable achievements. Attendees were treated to a remarkable auction featuring cherished items, including Fraser-Pryce’s iconic Olympic spikes, commanding a bidding price of US$1,000 each.

The event also showcased autographed football jerseys from esteemed members of the US football team, as well as an exclusive weekend getaway at the luxurious Geejam Hotel in Port Antonio.

Known as one of the greatest sprinters of all time, fans had the opportunity to purchase Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce T-shirts for US$100, further supporting the noble cause.

Sagicor Investments director and Pocket Rocket Foundation President Bruce James shared heartfelt sentiments about Fraser-Pryce’s journey. He reminisced about her humble beginnings in Waterhouse, where she dreamt of exploring the world despite her adversity. Undeterred by challenges, she soared to become a global superstar, realising her childhood aspiration.

Over the past decade, the Pocket Rocket Foundation has extended acts of love and kindness to 73 student athletes, providing them with invaluable support. This remarkable achievement has been made possible through the unwavering dedication of sponsors such as GraceKennedy, Digicel, Nike, and Sagicor.

The foundation has established an air-conditioned nurturing home in Waterhouse, where children are welcomed into a safe space after school, thanks to Sagicor’s generosity. Here, they can complete their homework and access the Internet using tablets graciously provided by Digicel. Additionally, GraceKennedy’s breakfast programme ensures that these young athletes receive a nutritious start to their day.

Taking the stage, Fraser-Pryce expressed gratitude for the profound impact and lasting legacy of the past 10 years. She took a moment to acknowledge and thank the foundation’s sponsors, partners, and friends for their unwavering support.

Reflecting on her own journey, she shared how her life was forever transformed during her time at Wolmer’s High School for Girls. Growing up in Waterhouse, an inner-city community plagued by crime and violence, she vividly remembered her mother’s words, that “Sports would be my way out.”

Amidst the applause, Fraser-Pryce called upon the beneficiaries of the foundation’s efforts, urging them to stand saying, “I see me in them.”

Among the inspiring individuals recognised was a former beneficiary who has now become a coach for the National Squash Team, a testament to the life-changing impact of the Pocket Rocket Foundation.

As the evening unfolded, it became evident that Fraser-Pryce’s Pocket Rocket Foundation had not only transformed the lives of countless young athletes but had also ignited a spark of hope within the community of Waterhouse.

She says she wants the children of her the community to have a choice.

“I want to show them they can choose differently,” she said. “They don’t have to stand up on the roadside. I want to make an impact.”

The foundation’s unwavering commitment to empowering change continues to inspire generations and foster a brighter future for all.