Usain Bolt Statue Illuminated To Mark Launch Of World Heart Week 2025 In Jamaica

The Usain Bolt statue at the National Stadium was illuminated on Thursday, September 25, to mark the start of Jamaica’s observance of World Heart Week 2025.

The observance, culminating on World Heart Day—Monday, September 29—seeks to promote cardiovascular health awareness and encourage Jamaicans to adopt heart-friendly lifestyles.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, who attended the event, described the occasion as a symbolic gesture underscoring the heart’s essential role in daily life.

“This occasion is [also] reflective of an athletic career that has been a light to the world, and a lighting up that brightens the focus on one of the body’s most important organs, the heart,” she said.

Minister Grange also underscored the urgency of this year’s World Heart Day theme – ‘Don’t Miss a Beat’.

“Preventing heart disease is not a future goal but a necessity—right here, right now—to save lives. It also encourages global participation in campaigns and activities aimed at reducing premature deaths from cardiovascular disease,” she stated.

Ms. Grange further emphasised the importance of heart health in daily life, stating:

“Being here at Statue Park at the National Stadium, we are reminded that a healthy heart is a prerequisite for sports performance.”

“Let this statue, bathed in light, inspire us to make our hearts stronger, our communities healthier, and our nation brighter,” she said.

The Minister commended the Heart Foundation of Jamaica for its ongoing efforts to raise awareness and promote preventative measures in support of cardiovascular health.

“Your work, no doubt, contributes to the saving of lives and a healthier Jamaica overall. I wish the Heart Foundation of Jamaica every success in this World Heart Week and beyond,” Ms. Grange said.

World Heart Day is a global initiative led by the World Heart Federation to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease—the leading cause of death worldwide.

In Jamaica, the observance expands into World Heart Week, typically beginning several days prior to September 29, allowing for a series of public engagement activities.

The observance is spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, in partnership with the Heart Foundation of Jamaica, supported by a broad coalition of stakeholders—including private sector partners, health professionals, educators, and community leaders.