A legacy of excellence

The Wilson family is once again celebrating an extraordinary academic achievement, as 11-year-old Blake Wilson – an exceptionally bright and determined student at Bright Beginnings Educational Centre in Portmore – has claimed first place in the 2025 Jamaica Junior Mathematics Olympiad.

The awards ceremony took place on Thursday, April 10, at the University of the West Indies, Mona, in the Assembly Hall.

Blake’s outstanding performance has brought immense pride to both his school and his family.

What makes this triumph even more special is that Blake is following in the impressive footsteps of his older brother, Bryce Wilson, who, just two years earlier in 2023, secured the top prize in the Grade Six Mathematics Olympiad.

This rare accomplishment – two brothers winning national mathematics titles within such a short span – has captured the attention of educators, inspired their peers, and sparked admiration across the academic community.

Even more impressively, Bryce has continued to shine in the world of mathematics. Now a second-form student and government scholar at Campion College in St Andrew, he recently placed 5th in the 2025 Jamaica Senior Mathematics Olympiad for Grade 8 students. Competing against some of the island’s brightest young minds, Bryce’s strong performance in this highly competitive arena reflects his consistency, intellect, and unwavering drive for excellence.

“I’m really proud of Blake,” Bryce shared with a smile. “I know how hard he worked, and it’s awesome to see him get this recognition. We cheer each other on – it’s what brothers do.”

‘THIS IS TRULY A BLESSING’

Their parents, Damian and Fiona Dyer Wilson, were visibly moved as they reflected on their sons’ achievements.

“This is truly a blessing,” said Mrs. Wilson, an educator and historian by profession.

“We are grateful to God for His continued favour and for the teachers and family members who have supported our sons along the way. This is not just our win – it’s a win for every teacher, every late-night study session, every prayer whispered.”

Blake’s teachers at Bright Beginnings describe him as focused, respectful, and eager to challenge himself.

“Blake is the kind of student who doesn’t just want the answer – he wants to understand the why behind the problem,” one teacher noted. “He is an inspiration to his classmates and a joy to teach.”

UNWAVERINGFAITH IN GOD

The Jamaica Mathematics Olympiads, organised annually by the Mathematics Department of the University of the West Indies, Mona, are among the island’s most prestigious academic competitions. The junior and senior levels test students’ logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and mathematical creativity, pushing them to go beyond the classroom and strive for national excellence.

This year, the programme saw participation from more than 2,500 students across 108 primary and prep schools at the junior level. At the senior level, approximately 580 students from 29 high schools entered the competition.

The final round of the junior division saw 1,250 students sitting the exam, with 109 students receiving recognition. In the senior division, 48 top performers were honoured across Grades 7 to 11.

The Wilson brothers’ accomplishments underscore the importance of nurturing young talent and creating opportunities for gifted students to shine. Their success also highlights the power of a supportive home, unwavering faith in God, and the vital role of dedicated educators in shaping Jamaica’s future.

As the Wilson family marks another remarkable milestone, they offer a powerful reminder: success often begins at home. And when it is cultivated with love, discipline, and purpose, it can flourish in ways that surpass imagination.

Indeed, lightning has struck twice in the Wilson household – and with faith, hard work, and continued dedication, the sky is the limit.