In celebration of Jamaican culture and excellence, the Ministry of Education and Youth presented the Cultural Icon Award to Usain St Leo Bolt at his alma mater, William Knibb Memorial High School, during the Jamaica Day festivities on February 23.

In his absence, his mentor and former teacher at William Knibb Memorial, Lorna Thorpe, accepted the award on his behalf.

The award, initiated by the Jamaica Day Planning Committee in 2017, aims to honour individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation’s culture and development.

“We selected Usain Bolt because, among many others, he has played a pivotal role in contributing to our culture and nation-building. This time around, we chose William Knibb as the featured school to celebrate Jamaica Day with and to recognise Bolt’s connection to his alma mater,” Marlon Williams, chairman of the Jamaica Day Planning Committee, explained.

In her address, on behalf of the Minister of Culture and Sport Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, principal director of Culture and Creative Industry Policy, Jo-Anne Archibald, praised Usain Bolt as a Jamaican trendsetter who has transformed modern athletics.

“Today, my Minister is pleased that the Ministry of Education and Youth has decided to honour a great Jamaican trendsetter. Single-handedly, Usain Bolt has stamped his authentic and unique personality everywhere he goes, painting the tracks of every Olympic stadium in the world with grace,” she said.

As part of the initiative, the Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo), Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT), and the Ministry of Education unveiled two storyboards at William Knibb Memorial High School.

These storyboards provide insights into the school’s sporting and historical significance, emphasising its heritage through a self-guided tour.

Wade Mars, executive director of TPDCo, highlighted the company’s commitment to Jamaica Day, stating, “TPDCo has created two storyboards at the school, emphasising its sporting and historical significance, to inspire students, engage stakeholders, and provide information for visitors exploring the school’s heritage through a self-guided tour.”

Archibald also offered encouraging words to the students: “Trust your instincts; utilise all available resources; seek support from others; educate yourselves; persevere in your training, and learn from every challenge. Success awaits you, and greatness resides within you and the world around you.”

By placing an emphasis on the integration of the arts in its STEAM curricula, the Ministry of Education and Youth underscores its commitment to supporting youth development through initiatives such as the TREND campaign.

This dedication not only fosters individual growth but also contributes to national progress, aligning with key pillars of transformation for a brighter future for Jamaican youth.