The Jamaican sprinting queen has paid tribute to a corporate leader, reflecting on years of support, legacy and community impact.
Jamaican sprinting legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has expressed heartfelt admiration for Don Wehby, CEO of GraceKennedy Limited, as he prepares to retire next month.
The announcement of Wehby’s retirement came via a press release on January 14, where GraceKennedy revealed that the 61-year-old, who joined the company in 1995 and became CEO in 2011, will formally step down on February 14.
Fraser-Pryce, who has been an ambassador for GraceKennedy since 2008, took to Instagram to pay tribute to Wehby’s leadership and legacy.
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The three-time world champion insists that Elaine Thompson-Herah and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce still have plenty more to offer the world.
She shared a series of photos alongside a heartfelt message, writing, “For the past 17 years, being a Grace Kennedy Ambassador has felt like being part of a family, a family led by @dongwehby, an incredible leader whose impact on the company and me personally has been extraordinary.”
The five-time 100m world champion highlighted the unwavering support she received from Wehby and the GraceKennedy team throughout her illustrious career.
“No matter the changes or challenges, Mr. Wehby and the Grace team have always extended care, love, and support to me throughout the years. Whether celebrating milestones or overcoming hurdles, the sense of unity and belonging has been a constant source of motivation,” she continued.
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Wehby’s dedication to community engagement left a profound impression on Fraser-Pryce, whose own charitable efforts have flourished under his guidance.
“Mr. Wehby’s vision for community engagement deeply inspired me. Witnessing his dedication reinforced my commitment to my foundation. We would not have been able to touch the lives of so many children through the Pocket Rocket Foundation without the Grace Kennedy partnership,” she noted.
As she reflected on the legacy of Wehby’s leadership, Fraser-Pryce expressed her gratitude and well wishes.
“Mr. Wehby, your legacy speaks volumes and will serve as a lasting blueprint for Grace Kennedy for years to come!” she concluded, offering her thanks and wishing him good health in retirement.
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Wehby’s retirement marks the end of an era for GraceKennedy, one of Jamaica’s largest and most respected companies.
His impact extended far beyond corporate achievements, influencing initiatives that supported Fraser-Pryce’s philanthropic efforts and amplified community development.
Beyond her ambassadorial role, Fraser-Pryce has also reflected on her status as a symbol of hope and perseverance in Jamaica. In an interview with Black Enterprise in June 2023, the sprinting icon spoke proudly about her journey and her commitment to uplifting others.
“I definitely feel good. I think, for me, especially coming from water holes as a young girl who didn’t know where she would end up in the future, to be able to be one of the icons of our country is really phenomenal,” she said.
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Fraser-Pryce acknowledged the significance of inspiring young Jamaicans from humble beginnings.
“Being able to give inspiration to other young girls who are coming from a similar situation that I was, or even those who have been able to relate to where I’m at on my journey – whether it’s on motherhood, whether it’s on age, or a lot of things – so being able to drive that here in my hometown,” she added.
