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Jamaica Hosts Volunteer from Tokyo Olympics

Release Date: 
Monday, April 14, 2025 - 12:00

KINGSTON; Jamaica; Wednesday, February 26, 2025:  – Jamaica welcomed and honour the volunteer whose act of kindness helped hurdler Hansle Parchment make it to his event at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where he went on to win gold in the 110m hurdles. Ms. Teiyana Kawashima Stojkovic was hosted in Jamaica with her immediate family for a week as a gesture of gratitude for her selfless support.

“On behalf of the government of Jamaica, I thank Teiyana for her single act of kindness that created a positive ripple effect and gave our country the gold at the Olympics. We are truly grateful for her assistance and happy she and her family were able to enjoy our authentic Jamaican experiences and hospitality,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett.

In a moment that captured hearts worldwide, Parchment shared how Ms. Teiyana assisted him when he mistakenly boarded the wrong bus to the Olympic Stadium, ensuring he arrived in time to compete in the semifinals and ultimately secure Jamaica’s only gold medal in track and field at the Games.

Director of Tourism, Donovan White expressed the nation’s appreciation, stating, “Jamaica will never forget the kindness and generosity shown to one of our athletes in his time of need. This visit is a small way to say thank you and celebrate the power of goodwill and sportsmanship.”

During their stay, Ms. Kawashima and her family experienced Jamaica’s rich culture, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality. The itinerary included visits to key sites like Dunn’s River Falls and a reunion with Hansle Parchment at the Bob Marley Museum.

Jamaica’s hosting of this extraordinary guest underscores the country’s deep values of gratitude and unity. The event also serves as an inspiring reminder of how simple acts of kindness can lead to historic achievements.