Success is something for which most people aspire. How success is defined from person to person may differ completely. In a relationship, success may be marked by a smooth transition from dating to courtship and marriage, while in business; success may mean the ability to produce efficiently or simply keeping the doors of the business open. One thing that is certain however is that success elicits a kind of fulfilling feeling that one has when a significant or lifelong achievement is made.
Jamaica, despite her many challenges, is filled with successful people. Those who have the ability to inspire others are looked upon nationwide as role models, while others, play important roles in their small corners; at home, school, church and throughout communities island wide. While their successes are celebrated, few of us know the struggles, difficulties and even failures that have dotted their journey on the road to victory.
The truth is failure is very much a part of victory. The thoughts expressed by world renowned sportsman, Michael Jordan about his success, is certain to be shared by every successful person the world over.
Below are the stories of two outstanding Jamaicans who have proven against the odds that with hard work, resolve and a steely determination, success and recognition is an achievable feat.
SHERONE SIMPSON, OLYMPIAN
The name Sherone Simpson has been bandied about in the Track and Field arena for at least the last ten years. At the height of her career in 2006, she was the world’s number one in both the 100 and 200m. And who can forget the Olympic Games of 2008, when along with Gold Medalist, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and fellow silver medalist, Kerron Stewart, she monopolized the Olympic Podium after the 100m finals, while the Jamaican national anthem rang out in the Birds Nest.
But as with all successes, there must come some challenges and Sherone has had her fair share. After bouncing back from two knee surgeries, Sherone faced what she described as “the worst and most difficult time of her career”.
Two years ago, she failed a drug test for a stimulant which was unintentionally ingested from taking an over the counter supplement. “After being a clean athlete for my entire track and field career; never failed a drug test before, it was heartbreaking especially because it caused people to believe the worst of me,” she stated.
William Mahfood – Chairman, Wisynco Group & President of the PSOJ
The Mahfood name has been synonymous with business and manufacturing in Jamaica for well over seventy years. Through generations, the Mahfoods have contributed significantly to the Jamaican economy and bettered the lives of the many Jamaicans in their employ. Continuing this tradition is Chairman of the Wisynco Group, William Mahfood.
The Mahfood family also boasts a tradition in success and William, in addition to his growth in the family business, stands as a prominent Jamaican role model of success. Outside of the Wisynco Group, he is the President of the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ), heavily involved in charity work as a Director of Food for the Poor and a prominent thought leader on business in Jamaica.
Ask him about his business’s success and one of the first things he will mention is the impact of his Wisynco Group on the country in general but in particular, his employees. “Over the years, what has motivated me is seeing our business grow not just collectively but individually and being able to see the impact that our business growth has had on both the company and the employees is phenomenal,” he asserted.
To continue reading , purchase Vol. 7 #9 2015 issue