5. Sporting athletes – First it was the Jamaican Bobsled Team, which inspired the Cool Runnings movie. Then the island became known as the sprint capital of the world as it racked up a record number of Olympic medals for its small population. From Arthur Wint, Deon Hemmings, and Merlene Ottey to Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce, Allia Atkinson and Usain Bolt, Jamaica has consistently exceled in sports on the world stage. The country invests heavily in sports and continues to groom athletes in various disciplines to extend its global dominance.
6. Jamaican Diaspora – From Dubai to Russia to Japan to South Africa, there is hardly a place on earth where you will not find Jamaicans. Jamaican diaspora members rack up accolades everywhere they go and we will see their influences for generations to come. Wherever they are in the world, Jamaicans are ambassadors of their culture and are influencing the community around them, excelling in business, government and many other areas that make their countrymen proud.
7. Jamaican Beauty – It is hard to deny the natural beauty that exudes from the Jamaican landscape. For decades, it is what has attracted millions from all over the world to vacation here including many celebrities and dignitaries. A Jamaican vacation is synonymous with many hidden gems found only on this island paradise from the wild rush of climbing the Dunns River Falls, to strolling on Negril’s Seven Mile white sand beach or eating real authentic jerk chicken prepared by artisan roadside vendors.
8. Jamaican people – Jamaican people are known for their tenacity and fighting spirit which can easily be mistaken for aggression. However, the ‘likkle but tallawah’ mentality is about defying the odds to achieve greatness even though your competitors may have more resources. Jamaican people are friendly and full of pride. Bent on succeeding, many are known for their ingenuity and determination to rise above hardships to achieve their goals.
So take away the GDP, military, and a seat in the G7. Do you think Jamaica is a global superpower?
