The Jamaica Tourist Board honored Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games staffer Ms. Tijana Kawashima Stojkovic today with a trip to Jamaica. In a ceremony live-streamed from the Jamaica Tourist Board and the Jamaican Embassy in Japan, the Honorable Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism for Jamaica, personally awarded the trip in recognition of her generosity.
Ms. Kawashima Stojkovic came to the attention of Japanese and Jamaicans for her act of kindness to Jamaican hurdler Hansle Parchment. Parchment boarded the wrong bus for his semi-final race and ended up at the wrong venue. She loaned him taxi fare so he could get to the Olympic Stadium in time for his race, and Parchment went on to win the gold medal in the 110-meter men’s hurdles. Parchment’s video posted to his social media showing how he found Ms. Kawashima Stojkovic again two days later to thank her for her generosity warmed the hearts of fans in both Jamaica and Japan.
“This act of kindness by Ms. Kawashima Stojkovic represents the best of the hospitality of the Japanese people and all Jamaicans are grateful to her” said Minister Bartlett.
“The action of Ms, Kawashima Stojkovic and the beautiful story with Mr. Parchment truly represents the Olympic Spirit”, aid Mr. Yukihiko Nunomura, Chief Operating Officer, The Tokyo Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“Jamaica’s tourism is very attractive to today’s Japanese traveler”, continued Minister Bartlett. “We offer much-loved music and entertainment, authentic cultural experiences, a unique culinary journey, world heritage sites, magnificent and varied natural beauty, outdoor activities for any level of adventurer, and some of the finest beach resorts in the world. We are excited about welcoming Ms. Kawashima Stojkovic and many more Japanese visitors back to Jamaica again soon.”
Ms. Kawashima Stojkovic thanked Minister Bartlett and the people of Jamaica saying, “It still feels like a dream. I just did what I could. My heart is full from this generous gift.” Ms. Kawashima Stojkovic is looking forward to visiting Jamaica in the coming months. Her trip will include airfare, accommodations and activities in Negril, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Kingston.
Marjorie Dewey, the President of Connect Worldwide Japan, attended the ceremony event in Japan. The Connect Worldwide Japan team is working with the Jamaica Tourist Board to negotiate with the airlines and help coordinate the visit. Below are some images from the live event.
It is always so nice to hear a story of gratitude. Everyone at Connect Worldwide sends their congratulations and thanks to Tijana Kawashima Stojkovic, Hansle Parchment and the Jamaica Tourist Board.
