Alfred’s Olympic wins get commemorative stamp

CASTRIES, Saint Lucia—Julien Alfred’s historic achievements at the 2024 Olympics will be honoured on a commemorative stamp as part of Saint Lucia’s Independence Day celebrations on Sunday (February 22).

The 24-year-old Alfred became Saint Lucia’s first Olympic gold medallist when she stormed to victory in the women’s 100 metres in Paris in a national record 10.72 seconds. She also added a silver medal in the women’s 200 metres.

Since her victories in Paris, the two-time Olympic medallist has been named a Tourism Ambassador for Saint Lucia.

The commemorative stamp series highlights key moments from Alfred’s historic accomplishments and will be added to the island’s official philatelic collection.

Although initially announced as a commemorative stamp, plans are to transition it to a definitive stamp.

While commemoratives are special-issue stamps tied to history and culture, created to honour or celebrate a specific event, person, place, or theme, definitive stamps are used every day.

This transition means Alfred’s stamp will move from being a one-time tribute to a permanent part of daily postage.

Alfred, who attended the event virtually, described it as a humbling experience.

“To be honoured by my island in this way is deeply humbling.

“This place shaped me into who I am: my values, my strength, and my dreams, and I truly accept this not just for myself, but as a symbol honouring the strength of a united community, and I’ll always carry my island with pride. And of course, happy 47th independence to Saint Lucia,” Alfred said.

Also present was Minister of Education, Youth Development and Sports, Kenson Casimir, who emphasised that the stamp transforms Alfred’s achievements into a “permanent national symbol.”

“Every envelope that bears her image will tell a story of a small island nation that produces world-class talent, of a young woman who rose through dedication and sacrifice, of a country that celebrates its champions not just in applause but in permanence.

“It also sends a powerful message to our youth: that excellence will be recognised, that discipline matters, that dreams are valid, and that with hard work, guidance, and opportunity, Saint Lucians can stand amongst the best in the world,” Casimir said. (CMC)