Sculptures of Jamaican icons, the king of reggae Bob Marley and world sprint sensation Usain Bolt are now in-transit as the symbols of our rich cultural heritage make their way by sea to World Expo 2025.

As Jamaica Tourist Board prepares for World Expo 2025 the sculptures that were commissioned by S Hotels Jamaica have allowed them to use the two statutes for one year on loan.

These statues were completed by the talented sculptor Scheed Cole and are permanent attractions in Montego Bay, St James.

World Expo 2025 will be held under the theme ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’. It is one of the oldest and largest international events, held every five years since 1851. A global platform for achievement, innovation, collaboration and cooperation, Jamaica will be among more than 150 participating countries and 25 international organisations in Osaka, Japan.

Danielle Shaw, manager at S Hotels, Kingston, said the sculptures symbolise the extraordinary cultural and athletic legacy of our nation.

“Usain Bolt represents the boundless energy and determination of Jamaica, while Bob Marley embodies the enduring power of our music and message of peace,” Shaw said.

He added that at S Hotels Jamaica they understand the importance of celebrating and sharing the Jamaican culture.

“This partnership with the Jamaica Tourist Board is not just about showcasing our icons; it’s about showing the world the richness of Jamaica, a destination where culture and hospitality blend seamlessly,” she said.

S Hotels Jamaica have become a cultural attraction in the hospitality sector. Bolt and Marley are among several life-size statues commissioned by the group

The Japan Association for the 2025 Expo has projected that more than 25 million visitors will attend, including more than 3.5 million international visitors.

Jamaica will participate under the ‘Connecting Lives’ subtheme and will invite expo visitors to its ‘Out of Many, One People — Let’s Link Up’ The Jamaica Pavilion to promote collaboration and unity in a global and interconnected environment.

“The statues will be an appealing aspect of the presence of Jamaica and to have them in the same space will speak volumes. People often associate Jamaica with the talent that we have, and Bob Marley and Usain Bolt are world-recognised names that people associate with music and athletics,” said Maureen Smith, commissioner general of section, Jamaica Pavilion Expo 2025, and promotions and events officer at the Jamaica Tourist Board.

Some 900 Jamaicans currently call Japan home, representing the second-highest population of the Diaspora in the Asia-Pacific region. The vast majority are teachers and teaching assistants.