The iconic netball brand made the announcement in a social media post on Tuesday, and for Beckford, the recognition is a testament to years of relentless effort and passion for the sport.
"This means the world to me. Gilbert is such a respected name in netball; they’ve been part of the game for as long as I can remember, so to now be an ambassador for them feels like everything I’ve worked for is being recognized," Beckford told SportsMax.Tv, her voice filled with pride and gratitude.
Beckford’s journey has been one of perseverance and heart. Since making her debut for Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls in 2013, she has become a cornerstone of the team, as she parades her skill in the Goal Attack position with finesse and flair.
Her sharpshooting, quick footwork, and ability to create opportunities have helped the Sunshine Girls secure bronze medals at the 2014 and 2018 Commonwealth Games. But it was in 2022 that Beckford’s star truly shone, playing a pivotal role in Jamaica’s historic silver medal finish at the Commonwealth Games—the nation’s best result to date.
"That silver medal was a dream come true. It wasn’t just about the medal, to be honest; it was about showing the world what Jamaica is capable of, and it felt like the start of something bigger because we actually won a bronze medal at the World Cup the following year," she reflected.
"Now we are just hoping to build on that heading into the next Commonwealth Games and, of course, the World Cup. We have already started the cycle on a positive note with back-to-back series victories against England and South Africa, and we will continue to work on our games until the next international assignment comes up," Beckford added.
The 29-year-old, who is currently in Australia ahead of another Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) League season with West Coast Fever, reiterated that the move was a new challenge that she embraced wholeheartedly.
"Playing in the SSN is an incredible experience. The intensity, and the skill level within the league ensure I continue to improve my game, as you basically have to be better every single day. And now, having Gilbert recognize my journey and align with me is just surreal," she shared.
That said, Beckford pointed out that being named a Brand Ambassador is not just about personal achievement, but more about representation and inspiring the next generation of netballers in Jamaica.
"This partnership is bigger than me. It shows young girls in Jamaica that hard work pays off and that your dreams can take you to places you never imagined. I want to be that example for them," she declared.
With that being a part of her end goal, Beckford remains as driven as ever, and the Gilbert ambassadorship, she said, is a new chapter that serves as added motivation to keep growing, and make her country proud.
"I’ve been focusing on improving my supershots, putting in extra time to fine-tune those weak areas. Like I said, the aim is always to enhance my skills and explore new ways to play the game.
"I said in a previous interview that this year is about stepping up for myself, for my team, and for Jamaica, and with Gilbert behind me, I feel like this is the start of a new chapter in which I will shine even brighter,” Beckford ended.