Yohan Blake, a paramount sprinter of Jamaica, has built his legacy both on and off the track. However, the second fastest man in history once had his fair share of challenges. Born in poverty, the Jamaican had an uphill battle getting basic necessities while growing up. But he worked wholeheartedly to turn around his conditions and now stands as one of the most successful sprinters of Jamaica. Hence, he made it his mission to change the lives of children in similar situations. And, in honor of his achievements on the track and his humanitarian work, he is now bestowed with one of the most prestigious national awards.

On October 20, 2025, Blake was conferred with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander during the National Investiture ceremony at King’s House on National Heroes Day. He received the presidential honor for his philanthropic work and his exceptional track record as a sprinter. Before Blake, athletes like Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Elaine Thompson, Shericka Jackson, and other elites received this rank with the Order of Distinction. 

In response to receiving the presidential honor, the sprinter expressed his gratitude to the Government of Jamaica. He said, “Thank you to the Government of Jamaica for this prestigious award, it really means a lot.”

The founder of the YB Afraid Foundation. Yohan Blake aimed to support the most vulnerable in Jamaica. The sprinter even adopted three children’s homes – Pringle Home in St. Mary, Mount Olivet Boys’ Home in Manchester, and the Jamaica Baptist Union Garland Hall Memorial Children’s Home in St. James. These homes cater to over 50 children and he plans to adopt an additional four homes.

Crediting the honor to his humble beginnings, he added, “If I should live that life again, I would, because it shaped me into the person that I am. There’s a grey cloud over [a lot of] people’s heads, and I’m a person who shines light.”

For young people facing similar challenges, the athlete urges them to dream big and not limit themselves based on their current circumstances.

Yohan Blake’s journey to become a celebrated philanthropist

Talking about his early days, he recollected that there were times when he didn’t even go to school. He was forced to repurpose that money to “cook some food.” But he knows it well that the early struggles in his life propelled him further and shaped him into the man he is today. 

Having faced similar challenges, he said, “I put my cup where I cannot reach it because, in life, we do grow and one day you are actually going to reach it. Your life is in your hands… If we keep on planting and planting, the crop will come.” 

Blake’s story has certainly traversed the lands beyond the world of track and field. He has kept motivating the young ones with his philosophy. But now, he looks forward to continue with the philanthropic work. He desires to extend his humanitarian work beyond the international borders.