7 Reasons Every Jamaican Should Be Proud of Their Heritage

Participating in and watching sports is a favourite pastime for Jamaicans. From track and field, football and cricket to netball, tennis and boxing, Jamaica has gained popularity for great sport achievements. Some say it’s the ‘country’ yam, dasheen and the strong dumpling. Whatever it is, Jamaica is renowned for producing some of the finest sports-men and women like Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Veronica Campbell from track and field, in addition to Courtney Walsh and Chris Gayle known in cricket, and Patrick Ewing who made it to NBA. The success of Jamaicans in sports around the globe is just one of many reasons to shout to the world, “I’m Jamaican and I’m proud”.

2. Musical accolades
Say the words ‘Jamaica’ and people from all over think “Reggae”. Yes, Bob Marley branded Jamaica with a music unique to the culture and the struggles Jamaicans know all too well. Yet Jamaicans have a love for music that goes beyond brand reggae. Our passion for music coupled with instrumental abilities have caused Jamaica’s music to not just be appreciated internationally, but also amass a legion of fans in many countries. Several notable musicians have contributed to music worldwide – Shaggy, Peter Tosh, Beenie Man, Chronixx, Proteje and more recently, Koffee. 

3.      Food and cultural influence
Jamaican food and other parts of the culture have seeped into the international spotlight. Jamaican cuisine has inspired many copycats as outsiders yearn for the secret behind the delicious, mouthwatering meals that originate in Jamaican kitchens. Many countries owe their present cultural flavour to the dynamic, rich culture that Jamaicans bring with them wherever they go.

4.      Small nation, global fame
Jamaica is really a country that lives up to the saying “wi likkle but wi tallawah.” As the old adage implies, Jamaica is but a little dot in the world. Yet for such a small nation, our people continue to make an indelible mark on the world. Jamaica exceeds the standard of a small Caribbean country, making a world class name for itself in areas such as sports, music, education and food. Jamaican citizens should be beaming with pride for the international renowned fame and the many coveted international titles that the country possesses.

5.      Ambition of the Jamaican people
Jamaicans have excelled in a multiplicity of areas both island wide and around the world.  Dedication and overflowing aspirations allow Jamaicans from humble backgrounds to rise to success and  fame, to big up the country and make our families proud. The desire to succeed fuels the ‘go-getter’ attitude and spurs Jamaicans wherever they go to achieve their dreams.

6.      Regional leader
As one of the largest Caribbean countries, Jamaica is a strong leader and role model for its Caribbean neighbours. Being an active, leading voice in political issues on the world stage, the country has contributed much to the development of the region, earning many accolades from international organisations and partners.

7.      Natural beauty of the country
Every year, millions of visitors spend their vacation in Jamaica and leave in awe at the splendour of the island. Laying claim to lush vegetation, tempting, glistening waters, cool, daring waterfalls, and exotic flora and fauna exclusive to Jamaica, the island boasts a truly coveted beauty. Add to that the exquisitely crafted terrain and the world’s best sunsets, Jamaica is certainly a picture of Paradise. We are proud to share our island home with the tourists who choose Jamaica for weddings, sightseeing, a lazy vacation, or to tick off their bucket list.