Several Jamaican athletes have expressed heartfelt gratitude after being awarded Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) scholarships to support their preparations for upcoming competitions, including the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

These awards are separate from the Olympic Solidarity Scholarships managed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) but will be nonetheless critical to the athletes’ journey to the world stage.

“The JOA Scholarship is another avenue that the JOA envisions we can change the fortunes of our athletes to ensure that they achieve their objectives. These four scholarships are valued at $1 million per year per athlete up to 2028, or $16 million over the period,” a release quotes JOA general secretary and CEO Ryan Foster.

“The funds will be used to assist them in travel, accommodation, and nutritional support for their training and preparation. Our athletes are our most treasured asset and we will continue to find creative ways to support them, especially in circumstances where they have expressed a need,” Foster said.

That need is evident in the passionate response from the recipients.

“I’m truly humbled to be on this path to greatness, surrounded by people who believe in me and see my potential. The Jamaica Olympic Association’s sponsorship means the world to me, and I’m deeply thankful for their support as I prepare for the 2028 Olympics,” declared national hammer thrower Nayoka Clunis.

Reflecting on how previous support from the JOA helped elevate her performance, she added: “Their trust in me is a game-changer, allowing me to focus on my training and reach new heights. I feel blessed to have this opportunity to represent my best self on the world stage. Their help in 2024 produced great throws, including the Jamaica national record, and I can’t wait to see how much more I can challenge myself over the next three years with their support.”

Rasandre Valentino Evans, who is preparing for the CAC Championships, Pan American Championships, and World Championships, said the scholarship is a powerful endorsement of a dream long in the making.

“I would like to sincerely thank the Jamaica Olympic Association for believing in me and giving me this amazing opportunity through karate. I am truly honoured to receive this scholarship and to represent Jamaica on the world stage,” Evans said.

Drawing inspiration from Jamaican sporting icons, Evans described how the scholarship strengthens his belief in building a legacy.

“Growing up, I was inspired by legends like Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who showed the world the greatness of Jamaica and made me ever more proud to be Jamaican. Their legacy reminds me that with discipline, faith, and hard work, we as Jamaicans can lead anywhere we go,” the martial artiste said.

“This support from the JOA tells me that my journey matters, that my dreams are valid, and that our country believes in building a future through its youth. I want to be part of a new legacy, where Jamaican karate stands proud among the best in the world. I want every child in Jamaica to see what is possible when we stay focused and never give up,” he said.

Evans also credited the guidance and influence of his sport’s leadership.

“Thank you, JOA, for seeing the vision that my coach and I have carried in my heart for years. This motivates me to train even harder, lead with respect, and represent with honour. My goal is not just medals, it is to help put Jamaica on the world map in karate and to make sure every young karate-ka in Jamaica knows: If I can do it, so can they,” Evans added.

“I also want to extend special thanks to our wonderful president, Sei Shihan Tony Robinson, for his constant guidance, belief, and leadership. His dedication to Jamaican karate and to young athletes like me makes all of this possible, and I am truly grateful. I am just getting started, and I will not stop until the world knows what Jamaican karate can do.”

For Llyodricia Cameron, the JOA Scholarship represents divine intervention at a pivotal moment in her career, as it arrived when others had turned her away.

“I want to thank God for being my all in every way. God has placed not many but a few vessels in my corner to support me in measures I cannot express. Being selected by the JOA to receive financial support towards my LA2028 Olympic Games journey is a big blessing,” Cameron said.

“An immense amount of weight has been taken off of my shoulders knowing the support and rooting has been added on this journey. I was denied by one and approved by one — the JOA. When God says yes, no one or anything can stop what God has put in place for you,” Cameron said.

“I would love to express my gratitude to JOA and their staff. Most importantly, Mr Foster and Ms Novelette. Thank you so much for this great opportunity.”

That sense of relief and renewed motivation was echoed by national hurdler Malik James-King, who described the financial and emotional strain athletes face when trying to compete at the highest level without consistent support.

“First, I have to say thank you for everything the JOA has done for me leading up to the journey in the 2024 Olympics. It has carried me a far way and a long way to showcase my talent to the world, as these things push athletes more, knowing the JOA have our backs — because it’s hard doing it on our own,” said King, the second fastest 400m hurdler in Jamaica’s history.

“It’s much appreciated and I hope the JOA continues to see it fit to keep the good work going because it helps and changes a lot of the fortune for athletes. A big thank you, JOA, for believing in us. Much thanks again,” he said.

FOSTER… our athletes are our most treasured asset and we will continue to find creative ways to support them