Leighton Levy, Star Writer

Characteristics that were ingrained in him by his grandmother may have played a big part in why Harbour View winger Kemar Lawrence landed the biggest contract of his life so far. The 21-year-old son of former national goalkeeper Orville Edwards was yesterday unveiled as Pepsi Ambassador for Jamaica at Cuddyz Sports Bar in New Kingston.

"Pepsi Jamaica is delighted to announce that we have signed Kemar as our brand ambassador and face of our new football campaign," Pepsi brand manager Carla Hollingsworth announced yesterday before a gathering that included officials from premier league leaders Harbour View Football Club, including Chairman Carvel Stewart and General Manager Clyde Juriedini.

"He will share this honour with many other footballers, including Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos and Robin Van Persie," she added.

eye-catching packaging

"Kemar will lead a new ad campaign and his image will be used in our branding. In addition, a selection of players will also be featured on limited-edition, eye-catching packaging across the globe while additional special products and interactive digital experiences will be revealed throughout the year," Hollingsworth continued.

Lawrence thanked many people, including those at his club and Pepsi for naming him ambassador, but had special thanks for his grandma, Norma Seymour. "Grandma means a lot to me. I basically grew up with Grandma and am still living with her," said the player who has represented Jamaica at the Under-17 and Under-20 levels and was a member of the Reggae Boyz squad during the recent World Cup campaign. "She is really my biggest motivator, as well as my father."

Though the honour is great, Lawrence said, he will do his best to remain grounded, lead by example, and capitalise on the opportunities that this one-year deal will open him up to.

"This is a big thing, but at the same time I have to be keeping my head where it should be, and that's in my football. This is to really expose me right now. I am looking to be exposed. I think I am ready to start playing overseas and to get more caps for my country."