Dear Editor,

Congrats to Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the fastest woman in the world, for copping yet again another award, this time the prestigious 2023 Laureus Sportswoman of the Year award in Paris, France.

As I watched the smartly dressed Fraser-Pryce accept the award so graciously and speak so eloquently from the podium, I was in awe of her gratitude, charm, and humility. I was also in awe of the magnitude of Jamaica, such a small country with limited resources and a host of problems, yet it has produced outstanding individuals in every area, who rank among the world’s best.

Fraser-Pryce was nominated for the Laureus award six times, she has won more world sprint titles than any other athlete and now she was able to accept this coveted award along with the great Argentinian footballer Lionel Messi who won the 2023 Laureus Sportsman of the Year award. What brilliance and outstanding company.

With people like Fraser-Pryce we are constantly reminded of the greatness among us, which often transcends Jamaica into global excellence. There are many others like her, who rose from poverty to achieve greatness internationally and have remained true to themselves and their country.

We must continue to use the Fraser-Pryces among us to inspire our people. Her speech at the Laureus event was riveting and heartfelt. Her growth and maturity as a person and an athlete is commendable, so is her sense of community and spirit of giving back through her foundation and charity work.

In the words of Fraser-Pryce, “[T]here are no barriers when it comes to your passion and calling.” She reminds us what it’s really like to be a Jamaican and what we can be if we follow our dreams and strive for excellence.

We must never allow the evil among us to test us and deflate our spirit. Let us continue to inspire each other to become better citizens.

P Chin

chin_p@yahoo.com