Jamaica’s dominance in global sprinting will be on full display in South Florida next month, as newly crowned 100-meter world champion Oblique Seville makes his first public appearance in the United States.
The Calabar Alumni Association Florida Chapter, Inc. announced that Seville will headline Green-and-Black Ness: Day Experience, a daytime cultural celebration scheduled for February 21, 2026, from noon to 6 p.m. at Markham Park.
Fresh off his historic world title, Seville—now officially the world’s fastest man—will be the featured guest at the outdoor event, which blends Jamaican cultural pride with music, food, and community fellowship. Organizers describe the experience as part day fete, part traditional Jamaican cookout, offering a relaxed but festive atmosphere rooted in heritage and excellence.
While based in South Florida, interest in the event has already spread across Jamaican diaspora communities throughout the southeastern United States, positioning it as a regional destination gathering.
A major highlight of the program will be the presentation of the inaugural Lion Heart Award of Courage to Seville by Calabar Alumni Florida. The honor recognizes his discipline, resilience, and rise to the top of global athletics. Seville is also expected to address attendees, sharing his personal journey—from challenges and setbacks to standing atop the sprinting world.
“To make my first public appearance in the United States in a space that celebrates Jamaican culture and community means a great deal to me,” Seville said. “Calabar is part of my journey that helped shape who I am, and to be honored by my people in the diaspora is special. I hope my journey reminds young people everywhere that with discipline, belief, and hard work, anything is possible.”
Karl Thompson, president of Calabar Alumni Florida, said the event goes beyond entertainment.
“Green-and-Black Ness is more than an opportunity to have a good time,” Thompson said. “It is a moment of cultural pride for the diaspora—it’s really more of a green, black, and gold thing. It’s a celebration of Jamaican excellence and courage, honoring one of our own and inspiring the next generation through his achievements.”
With Seville’s appearance, organizers say the event underscores Jamaica’s continued influence on global athletics while reinforcing the strong cultural ties between the island and its diaspora in South Florida.
