State Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Alando Terrelonge, delivered a powerful message of empowerment and national pride at Thursday’s launch of the Jamaica Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Association’s (JABBFA) 2025 Novice and Junior Championships, held at the Jamaica Olympic Association’s headquarters.
Drawing on the event’s theme, “Strong Roots, Stronger Futures,” Terrelonge framed the championships not just as a sporting contest, but as a movement of national transformation grounded in discipline, identity, and opportunity for Jamaica’s youth.
“A tree with strong roots can weather any storm,” the minister said. “Today we gather to celebrate those roots—the strength of our youth, our communities, and our culture.”
Now in its latest edition, the Novice and Junior Championships serve as a launching pad for first-time competitors and young athletes stepping onto the bodybuilding stage for the very first time. Minister Terrelonge lauded JABBFA for creating a platform where dreams can take root.
“By focusing on juniors and first-timers, JABBFA is building a pipeline of possibility—where youth from every backdrop can stand tall and say, ‘I am a champion.’”
Referencing his own upbringing in Grants Pen, Terrelonge shared personal reflections on the value of sport in shaping lives.
“I know what it feels like to be underestimated, but I also know the power of discipline, belief, and community—all of which are planted deep within our Jamaican soil.”
He emphasized that bodybuilding—like all sports—is about far more than physical aesthetics. It teaches resilience, self-control, and purpose.
“It’s not just about flexing muscle. It’s about mental strength. It’s about showing up when no one’s watching, pushing past your limits, and chasing something greater.”
The minister also highlighted the Government of Jamaica’s investment in sports infrastructure and youth development. Between 2022 and 2025, approximately J$12.18 billion was committed to the advancement of sport through funding, facilities upgrades, and international partnerships, including a new sports cooperation agreement with Argentina.
“As a government, we understand that sport builds people—and it builds nations. Whether sprinting down a track, dropping beats on stage, or flexing on a JABBFA platform, Jamaica commands attention.”
He took time to recognize community-level achievements in his own constituency of East Central St. Catherine, including Racing United’s Top 8 finish in the Jamaica Premier League and Newland Football Club’s run to the Divisional League semi-finals. He announced a combined J$300,000 in support for both teams.
“Sport rescues individuals. It rescues communities. It teaches our youth to win with humility and to lose with grace. Supporting sport means building peace, character, communities—and a nation.”
As the June 28 championship draws near, Minister Terrelonge encouraged athletes to carry not only physical strength but purpose onto the stage.
“Every rep is a vote of confidence. Every pose is a declaration of purpose. Every youth on that stage is proof that Jamaica’s future is rooted and strong.”
He closed with a rallying call to all Jamaicans to continue choosing nation-building through youth, culture, and sport.
“Let us continue to build a stronger Jamaica—for the benefit of future generations.”
Photos: Jamaica Social