In the competitive realm of gymnastics, few athletes embody the perfect blend of raw talent and relentless determination like Jamaica’s own Maia Campbell. At just 10 years old, Maia is already making her mark in a sport that demands mental fortitude, physical strength, and artistic precision.

Her gymnastics journey began like many great stories—unexpectedly. “I got interested when my mom noticed me flipping all around the house, so she signed me up for gymnastics,” Maia recalled. “It was fun, and I really enjoyed it, so I wanted to continue.”

At just 3 years old, Maia’s potential was evident as she competed in her first event, the Kinder Gym Nishida Gymnastics Level Grading. In 2020, she was invited to join Nishida’s Gymnastics NGR Star and USAG Programme. “The coaches recognized it wasn’t just about climbing furniture—Maia had real talent,” said her mother, Yolande Hylton.

Now training four hours a day, three days a week, Maia balances rigorous gymnastics sessions with academic excellence. A Grade 5 student at Stella Maris Preparatory School, she maintains an impressive 90th percentile average, proving her ability to excel both on the mat and in the classroom. Additionally, she is the ultimate all-rounder, excelling in other sports and activities.

She earned Silver (2023) and Bronze (2024) medals in long jump at the KISA Prep School Championships. She is also a member of her school’s swim team. Beyond athletics, Maia showcases her artistic side as a dancer with Plie for the Arts.

Maia’s accomplishments speak volumes. From winning first place in the USAG Level 1 All-Around at the Gasparilla Classics in Tampa, Florida, in 2022, to qualifying for Jamaica’s Junior Gymnastics Team in 2023, she has consistently delivered exceptional performances.

Behind Maia’s success is her strongest supporter—her mother, Yolande Hylton, a single parent who has made countless sacrifices to nurture Maia’s talent. “Maia is disciplined and focused,” Yolande shared. “Whether it’s earning top marks in class or nailing a balance beam routine, she’s always giving her all.”

Maia shares this admiration for her mother, calling her the biggest motivator in her journey. “My mom encouraged me to keep going, even when I wanted to quit,” Maia said. “She always tells me it’s okay and motivates me to keep trying.”

This unwavering support helps Maia consistently surpass her previous achievements. In 2023, she earned second place in USAG Level 4 at the Jamaica Gymnastics Classics then proceeded to secure first place in USAG Level 5 at the Jamaica Carifta Trials in October 2024.

More recently, Maia excelled at the Jamaica Gymnastics Classics, achieving an overall first-place finish in USAG Level 5. She dominated the competition with 1st in Bars, 2nd in Balance Beam, 3rd in Vault, and 4th in Floor. This event, held on Sunday, December 1, 2024, followed her outstanding performance at the Carifta Gymnastics Competition the previous day where she earned an overall 2nd place finish in the Under-11 category. At Carifta, Maia placed 1st in Beam and Vault, tied for 2nd in Floor, and secured 3rd in Bars.

Continuing on her rapid advancement, Maia now aspires to move on to USAG Level 6 and compete in the Simone Biles Invitational, scheduled for late January 2025. Looking ahead, she dreams of representing Jamaica at the Olympics, exploring gymnastics opportunities in Europe, and inspiring young gymnasts to follow their own dreams.

However, Maia’s path to success isn’t without challenges. As a single parent, Yolande has carried the financial burden of Maia’s training and competitions. With the upcoming Simone Biles Invitational and other developmental opportunities, additional sponsorship is needed to help Maia reach her full potential.

“Your support could shape the future of a dedicated young athlete who embodies determination and excellence,” Yolande shared. “By sponsoring Maia, you’re not just investing in her—you’re investing in the growth of gymnastics in Jamaica and supporting a promising young talent.”

Yolande can be contacted at 876-878-5310 for additional details on potential sponsorship opportunities for Maia. 

Despite these challenges, Maia remains undeterred, fueled by her discipline, skill, and the unwavering support of her family, coaches, and community. Her favourite lesson—”never give up and keep trying”—shines through in every routine.

Whether you remember Maia as the little girl flipping around the house or know her now as a rising star on the international stage, one thing is clear: Maia Campbell proves that with passion and hard work, the leap from hobby to history-making is entirely possible.