Ackera Nugent isn’t just another name in track and field; she’s Jamaica’s newest sprint hurdling sensation. At just 223, she’s won the 2021 World Under-20 Championships in the 100m hurdles, created a new Jamaican national record in the 60m hurdles with a time of 7.72 seconds during the NCAA Indoor Championships in 2023, and become the fourth-fastest woman ever in the 100m hurdles.

But here’s the point: her journey’s been anything but a straight route to glory. From Olympic heartbreak in 2024 to bouncing back stronger, her story is about grit, determination, and will to carry on against all odds. And behind every hurdle she clears, there’s a family story that’s just as compelling as her performances on the track. So, let’s dive in to know more about Ackera’s family background.

Meet Judeth Thomas And Desmon Nugent

Ackera was born in Kingston, Jamaica, on April 29, 2002, to parents Judeth Thomas and Desmon Nugent. The details about her dad, Desmon, are not available. Public records and interviews mostly discuss her mom, Judeth, who’s been the rock in Ackera’s life.

Growing up in Kingston, a city that lives and breathes athletics, Ackera was practically born with sprinting in her blood. But it’s her mom, Judeth, who turned that raw talent into something special. While Desmon’s role remains private, Judeth’s influence on Ackera is clearly visible. 

Judeth Thomas Raised Ackera Nugent as a Single Mother

Raising a future track star as a single mom in Jamaica isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Judeth juggled bills, long work hours, and made the kind of sacrifices that many might miss out on to raise three daughters with Ackera being the youngest. But Ackera has always acknowledged her mom’s efforts. “Growing up in Jamaica was never easy,” Ackera Nugent admits. She doesn’t shy away from the reality of her childhood. She was raised in a single-parent home, where financial struggles were part of daily life. But one memory sticks out sharper than the rest, the day she saw her mom, Judeth, crying over not having enough money to afford her airfare to college. “That moment changed everything for me,” she recalls. “I decided I’d never put her in that position again.”

Her determination paid off. After acing her SATs, Ackera finally made it to college. But getting there wasn’t a solo victory. “My mom got assistance from others to make it happen,” she explains. Once on campus, though, the pressure didn’t let up. “I honestly didn’t enjoy college life,” she confesses. Instead of parties or dorm gossip, her focus was laser-sharp: “I couldn’t waste the money invested in me. More importantly, I had to make my mom proud.” And guess what? Ackera didn’t just run—she excelled. She grabbed a degree in Communication and Media Studies while smashing NCAA records.

What is Ackera Nugent’s Parents’ Nationality?

Judeth and Desmon hail from Kingston, and Ackera represents Jamaica with pride every time she steps on the track. You can see it in how she talks about her roots: “Jamaica’s track culture is fire. It pushes you to be fearless.”  Her parents’ nationality is the foundation of her identity. Her achievements contribute to Jamaica’s proud legacy in track and field, and her family’s nationality is a testament to the nation’s rich sporting heritage.​

Now, Ackera’s eyes are all set for the Grand Slam Track League for the 2025 season and winning titles in the World Championship and the upcoming Olympics. While she is chasing records, now we know the reason behind her grits and resilience. Yes, none other than her mom. So, what is your opinion on Ackera’s journey? Comment and let us know.