KINGSTON, Jamaica — The iconic figures of reggae legend Bob Marley and sprint champion Usain Bolt will soon take their place on the world stage at the highly anticipated World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
In an exciting collaboration, S Hotels Jamaica has lent two life-sized sculptures of these national heroes to the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) for a year-long display at the event. These remarkable pieces, crafted by renowned Jamaican sculptor Scheed Cole, have become permanent fixtures at the luxury resort’s Montego Bay location, where they have already become a key cultural attraction.
World Expo 2025, scheduled to take place from April 13 to October 13, will be held under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” attracting more than 25 million visitors from over 150 countries. For Jamaica, the event represents a unique opportunity to showcase the country’s rich culture, history, and world-renowned achievements on the global stage.
S Hotels Jamaica, known for its contributions to preserving and promoting Jamaican heritage, sees this as a significant moment to celebrate the cultural and athletic legacies of Bob Marley and Usain Bolt. Danielle Shaw, Manager at S Hotels, Kingston, expressed that the sculptures represent the dynamic spirit of the nation.
“Usain Bolt exemplifies the unrelenting drive and vitality that define Jamaica, while Bob Marley is synonymous with peace, love, and the universal language of music,” Shaw said. “These statues are not just about showcasing our legends, but about sharing Jamaica’s soul with the world, highlighting the seamless blend of our culture, hospitality, and national pride.”
The sculptures will be displayed prominently in the Jamaica Pavilion at the Expo, where the country will operate under the sub-theme “Connecting Lives.” Visitors will be invited to experience Jamaica’s unique blend of culture and innovation through a diverse range of exhibits that highlight the country’s progress toward sustainable development and its vibrant tourism sector.
Maureen Smith, Commissioner General of the Jamaica Pavilion at Expo 2025, expressed her excitement about the sculptures’ role in connecting Jamaica to the global audience. “We are thrilled to present these world-renowned figures to Expo attendees, as they embody the spirit of Jamaica. Both Usain Bolt and Bob Marley are globally recognized symbols of excellence, and their presence will be a powerful reminder of what Jamaica represents—resilience, creativity, and global impact.”
Smith emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism as a key focus for the nation at the Expo, aligning with Jamaica’s Vision 2030 goals. She also noted the expo’s expected demographic, with over 80% of attendees being Japanese, making it an excellent opportunity to connect with an international audience.
As the countdown to the Expo continues, these statues of Bolt and Marley will serve as symbols of Jamaica’s enduring influence on the world stage, sparking conversation and inspiring millions of visitors to embrace the island’s message of unity, peace, and potential.
