There are so many inspiring Jamaicans whose contribution to the country is more than deserving of mention. In sports, the arts, culture, and economic development, they have helped to spread the name and influence of our little island and are part of why we can all be proud Jamaicans. Take a look at these nine people who have flown or continue to fly our flag with immeasurable pride both at home and abroad.
Bob Marley – Born Robert Nesta Marley in 1945, the late Bob Marley is the most successful Caribbean musician of all time and is credited with spreading Reggae music from the shores of Jamaica to a global audience. Known for his stirring lyrics on social issues, Marley’s message of resistance against injustice and discrimination continues to resonate with people of all races and social classes almost 40 years after his death. Bob’s strong devotion to the Rastafarian Movement has influenced many followers even to this day, and his music is listed among the top ten sales by dead musicians in the world. His ‘Legend’ album (released after his death) is certified by the Recording Industry Association of America as selling more than 15 million copies.
Usain Bolt – Hailing from the parish of Trelawny, Usain Bolt is perhaps the most recognizable Jamaican alive today. The fastest man in the world and double world record holder is the first sprinter to hold world records in both the 100 meters and 200 meters. His athletic prowess and dedication to his country was recognized by the Jamaican government in 2009 with the national honour Order of Jamaica (OJ) and the diplomatic title ‘Ambassador-at-Large’. In November 2011, Bolt was also conferred the honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree by the University of the West Indies (UWI). The achievements of Dr. the Honourable Ambassador Usain Bolt, OJ has motivated many aspiring athletes in Jamaica and abroad. His charisma and indomitable personality has won many fans who crowded into stadiums to witness his feats in consecutive Olympic Games in Beijing, 2008 and London, 2012. Since his retirement in 2017, Bolt has turned his attention to football, and has expressed hopes to join a professional football team.
Marcus Garvey – The first person to be appointed a National Hero in Jamaica, Marcus Mosiah Garvey was a political leader, publisher, entrepreneur and civil rights activist. Garvey was born in 1887 and made a significant contribution to the advancement of rights for black people, promoting the Black Nationalism and Pan-Africanism movements up until his death in 1940. Garvey was the founder of the Universal Negro Improvement Association through which he promoted his belief that people of African ancestry have a responsibility to “redeem” Africa and encourage European colonial governments to leave the continent. His Pan-African philosophy, known today as “Garveyism,” inspired a worldwide movement and influenced several political and religious groups, including the Rastafarian movement and the Nation of Islam.
Miss Lou – Louis Bennett-Coverley, known to Jamaicans as “Miss Lou,” is celebrated for promoting Jamaican culture and particularly the use of patois around the world. Before her death in 2006, the folklorist, writer, and artiste published several books of poetry in Jamaican patois and recorded many traditional Jamaican folksongs. Miss Lou’s contributions to Jamaican arts and culture was officially recognized in 1974 with the Order of Jamaica and in 2001, when she was appointed as a Member of the Jamaican Order of Merit.
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce – The fourth fastest woman in history is Jamaica’s Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce with a personal best of 10.70, which she ran in 2012. She gained fame after becoming the first woman from the Caribbean to win a gold medal at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. Fraser-Pryce solidified her athletic dominance when she successfully defended her title at the London 2012 Olympic Games. Her achievements include being only the second female sprint runner to hold both the World and Olympic 100-meter championships at the same time.
Jimmy Cliff – Jimmy Cliff is a singer and actor best known for his starring role in the 1972 reggae film “The Harder They Come”. Born James Chambers in 1948, Jimmy Cliff was one of the early musical pioneers credited with popularizing reggae music internationally. In 2010, his legendary talent was celebrated when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The two-time Grammy winner is also the only living musician to be awarded the Order of Merit by the Jamaican government for his achievements in the arts and sciences.
Shaggy – The Jamaican-American reggae singer and rapper, whose real name is Orville Richard Burrell, won a Grammy award in 1996 for Best Reggae Album. But Shaggy, as he’s called, is perhaps best known for his annual fundraiser in support of the Bustamante Hospital for Children in Kingston. He started the “Shaggy Make a Difference Foundation” in 2009 after visiting a friend’s child at the hospital and seeing firsthand the dire need for proper medical equipment. Through collaboration with local and international artists, the event has raised more than J$400 million for the facility. As far as his music is concerned, Shaggy’s albums have been four times for the Grammys, in addition to the winning ‘Boombastic’ album.
Ziggy Marley – The oldest son of reggae legend Bob Marley, David “Ziggy” Marley has won several Grammy awards for his reggae albums. Born in Trenchtown in 1968, Ziggy followed in his father’s footsteps to become a successful musician in his own right. As the leader of the Melody Makers band, he and his siblings continue to spread reggae music to global audiences. Ziggy’s also does philanthropic work, providing aid to children in Jamaica and Ethiopia through the Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment.
Harry Belafonte – Born in 1927 in New York City, Harry Belafonte is an actor and singer of Jamaican heritage. Inspired by Martin Luther King Jr., Belafonte is known for supporting several social and political causes including his support to end apartheid in South Africa. In the 1980s, Belafonte collaborated with other performers such as Michael Jackson and Bruce Springsteen to produce the renowned “We Are the World” recording that donated proceeds to providing famine relief in Ethiopia. He was also named as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF.
