In April 2026, retired Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce—affectionately known as the “Pocket Rocket”—was named a Laureus Ambassador, joining a global network of elite athletes using sport to drive social change. The appointment marks a new phase in her post-athletic career, extending her influence beyond competition into international advocacy.
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Laureus Sport for Good Foundation
Founded in 2000, the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation is a global movement that uses sport as a tool for social change. Working in more than 40 countries, it supports programmes that tackle issues such as youth violence, inequality, and limited access to education. Guided by the Laureus World Sports Academy—a collective of some of the world’s greatest athletes—the foundation combines funding, advocacy, and on-the-ground engagement to help young people build confidence, resilience, and opportunity through sport.
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A Global Role with Immediate Impact
As an ambassador, Fraser-Pryce will engage with Laureus initiatives through mentorship, programme visits, and advocacy, using her platform to support youth development globally. She officially began the role at the 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid on April 20, marking her return to an organisation with which she has a longstanding relationship. Fraser-Pryce has received six nominations for Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year, winning the award in 2023.
Fraser-Pryce also joins fellow Jamaican Olympian Usain Bolt in contributing to the Laureus movement. Bolt has previously supported the organisation through appearances at the Laureus World Sports Awards and participation in Sport for Good visits, including youth engagement initiatives in Manchester. He is also a four-time winner of the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award (2009, 2010, 2013, 2017), underscoring his longstanding connection to the organisation.
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A Natural Extension of Her Journey
Fraser-Pryce’s appointment reflects a path she has long been building. From her early days in Kingston’s Waterhouse community to becoming one of the most decorated sprinters in history, her journey has consistently extended beyond medals.
Through initiatives like her Pocket Rocket Foundation, she has supported student-athletes with scholarships and mentorship, reinforcing her commitment to youth development. Her work aligns closely with Laureus’ mission to use sport as a tool to create opportunity and shift outcomes for young people.
Speaking on the role, she described it as a meaningful continuation of her journey, with a focus on guiding and empowering the next generation through her experiences.
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Beyond Medals: A Global Legacy Rooted in Jamaica
Fraser-Pryce’s appointment adds yet another honour to an already remarkable legacy and gives Jamaicans one more reason to be proud. She is expected to carry this role with the same grace, dignity, and excellence that have long defined her as an athlete and ambassador.
Her focus now extends to mentorship and advocacy, offering insight into both the opportunities and challenges within elite athletics, while helping young people navigate their own paths.
