A former athlete, Fernando Edwards always finds time to watch the sports, especially major meets like the Olympics. With the Paris Games two weeks away, the Jamaican entrepreneur has launched a line of patriotic leisure wear.

The T-shirts, which bear images of Jamaica’s athletes as well as colours of the country’s flag, are manufactured by Jamroc Dept, a company Edwards operates in Los Angeles.

“I came up with these designs in February. I knew the Olympics were approaching and I wanted to give the fans a way to show that they are in support of Team Jamaica. Whether they are Jamaican or not, this line will let everyone know who they are rooting for,” he told Observer Online.

To help expose his line, Edwards plans to approach popular personalities to endorse the product which he personally designed.

A model wearing patriotic Jamaica leisure wear manufactured by Jamroc Dept.

Born in Clarendon, Edwards competed over 200 and 400 metres for Bridgeport High School at the 2004 and 2005 Boys Championship. He also represented that school at the 2005 Penn Relays.

He received a track scholarship to Missouri Baptist University, competing for that institution in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics over 200 and 400 metres.

As the Olympics (July 26-April 11) approached, Edwards was determined to not only salute the current Jamaican team, but honour his country’s remarkable athletics history.

“I wanted to do something creative and different from the larger brands, that actually represents us and is by us. I have a bigger goal to give back to Jamaica, and track and field is a big sport for our culture that can help bring awareness to the brand,” he explained.

A model wearing patriotic Jamaica leisure wear manufactured by Jamroc Dept.

Edwards gave up athletics after graduating from Missouri Baptist University, where he earned a degree in business management. He moved to Los Angeles, starting a catering business and becoming an actor/director in projects such as the 2023 crime thriller, Rooted Betrayal.