About Devon Harris
International Motivational Keynote Speaker
Mindset Resilience Coach | Author | Philanthropist
From Olympic Gardens to Olympian Heights: The Unyielding Resilience of Devon Harris
Devon Harris, a name synonymous with Jamaican bobsledding, dared to dream the impossible. Welcome to his awe-inspiring saga, a living testament to the transformative power of resilience. Devon Harris’ journey, a symphony of triumph over adversity, takes us from the tumultuous streets of Olympic Gardens to the prestigious halls of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, the officer corps of the Jamaica Defence Force and ultimately, to the icy arenas of the Winter Olympics.
Olympic Gardens: The Forge of Resilience
Devon Harris’ story begins in Olympic Gardens, a neighborhood marked by its challenges and steeped in adversity. Amidst the struggles of a violent ghetto, Devon Harris refused to succumb to the limitations imposed by his surroundings and in fact found the inner strength to dream beyond his circumstances. It was here, in the crucible of Olympic Gardens, that the seeds of resilience were sown, laying the foundation for an extraordinary journey that would not only change his life but also inspire generations to come.
Royal Military Academy Sandhurst: A Beacon of Discipline
Undeterred by the obstacles he faced, Devon earned a coveted spot at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. This prestigious institution, known for producing exceptional leaders, became a crucible where Devon honed not only his physical prowess but also the mental fortitude that would later define his Olympic journey. The need to adapt to a dramatically different environment and the discipline instilled at Sandhurst became the bedrock of his resilience.
From Officer to Olympian: Serving Jamaica with Pride
As an officer in the Jamaica Defence Force, Devon Harris exemplified the qualities of leadership and commitment. Yet, his journey didn’t stop at the military—it expanded to the realm of winter sports. Despite Jamaica being a tropical paradise with a decided lack of a winter sports tradition, Devon, with an unyielding spirit, became a founding member of the Jamaican bobsled team, breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes.
Cool Runnings: A Real-Life Odyssey
The world caught a glimpse of Devon Harris’ remarkable odyssey through the lens of “Cool Runnings.” The Disney film immortalized the audacious pursuit of a Jamaican bobsled team at the 1988 Winter Olympic Games in Calgary, Canada, but Devon Harris’ real-life journey far surpasses the cinematic narrative. Devon faced numerous obstacles on his path to Olympic glory, from financial constraints to the skepticism of naysayers, even his own fears. However, his resilience was unwavering. In the true spirit of a Jamaican warrior, he conquered each challenge with a combination of passion, tenacity, and an unshakeable belief in himself. It is a testament to courage, grit, and the unrelenting pursuit of one’s dreams.
Three-Time Olympian: Defying the Odds on the Global Stage
Devon Harris became not just an Olympian but a three-time Winter Olympian, donning the colors of Jamaica and carving his mark on the global stage. His resilience, coupled with an unwavering commitment to excellence, propelled him through the bone-chilling challenges of bobsledding, illustrating that a determined spirit knows no climate boundaries.
As a founding member of the Jamaican bobsled team, Devon Harris’ legacy extends beyond personal triumphs. He opened doors for future generations, proving that resilience, coupled with audacity and vision, can redefine what’s possible. His contribution to the sport echoes in the cheers of not only the Jamaican athletes who follow in his tracks but athletes from around the world who have dared to push against the grain of what everyone else thought was possible.
Beyond the Track: A Life of Purpose
Devon Harris’ resilience extends far beyond the bobsled track. Following his Olympic pursuits, he dedicated his life to inspiring others as an international motivational keynote speaker sharing his philosophy of how everyone can Keep On Pushing past the invetable challenges and adversity they will face in life. Devon’s story is not just about winning medals but about empowering individuals to overcome their own hurdles. His life experiences and the insights he has drawn from them, teaches his audiences that resilience is a force capable of transforming lives.
Devon Harris has also devoted his time to visiting US troops across the country as well as overseas. He has also supported a number of children charities including his own Keep On Pushing Foundation – a New York based 501( c) foundation aimed at supporting the education of kids in disadvantage communities. During the 2018 Olympic Games in PyeongChang, Korea, the World Olympian Association inducted Devon as an Olympian for life for his valuable contribution to society.
Book Devon Harris: Inspire Your Audience with Resilience
Invite Devon Harris to share his incredible story at your event and experience the transformative power of resilience firsthand. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, a university or community event, or a school assembly, Devon Harris’ message captivates and motivates. His powerful life story transcends boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to hear it. Allow your attendees to dive into the extraordinary resilience of Devon Harris—a journey that spans continents, defies stereotypes, and embodies the belief that no dream is too grand when fueled by unwavering determination.
