Guyana has celebrated a landmark sporting achievement as Rosanna Fung became the nation’s first-ever World Champion bodybuilder, capturing gold at the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) World Championships, held during the prestigious Binous Classics in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from October 17–19.
Competing in the Wellness category, Fung delivered an exceptional performance against nine of the world’s top-ranked athletes, earning the gold medal and placing Guyana on the global bodybuilding map.
The Binous Classics is one of the largest and most respected fitness expos in the Middle East, drawing elite competitors from around the globe. Fung’s victory is widely regarded as a watershed moment for the nation, marking Guyana’s emergence as a rising force in international fitness and bodybuilding.
A Triumphant Homecoming
Fung returned to Guyana on Saturday night to a jubilant reception at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, where fans, family members, and government officials gathered to celebrate her historic triumph.
Among those welcoming her were Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr., Minister within the Ministry Steven Jacobs, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, Assistant Director of Sport Franklin Wilson, and Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation President Roger Callender.
Minister Ramson hailed Fung’s achievement as “a monumental moment for Guyana,” commending her determination and discipline. “Rosanna has proven that with hard work and belief, Guyanese athletes can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best,” he said.
Fung’s Emotional Message to Guyana
Following her victory, Rosanna Fung took to Instagram to share an emotional message with her supporters, reflecting on the magnitude of the moment and the journey that led her there.
“Standing in the lineup among nine of the top-ranking athletes in my category and hearing my name called as the World Champion is a feeling I can’t put into words,” she wrote.
“In that moment, every early morning cardio session, every setback, and every ounce of doubt that I could do it—it all became so clear. This win isn’t just mine; it’s ours, Guyana. ”
Fung went on to express heartfelt gratitude to her sponsors — ENetworks, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Fitness Express, Prem’s Electrical, Shield Construction, Space Gym Guyana, and Power Producers & Distributors Inc. — acknowledging their role in helping her achieve this milestone.
She also shared touching tributes to her family, friends, and fiancé, Tariq, describing him as “my day-one scientist and coach” and thanking him for his patience, guidance, and unwavering belief in her.
Fung’s post also included a deeply emotional note to her younger sister, who is battling cancer:
“Seeing you kick cancer’s butt keeps me strong. You are my little warrior.”
She extended special thanks to her coach, Jean Luc, for his mentorship, saying,
“Your guidance is unparalleled, and the love and care you pour into each of your athletes shows. We appreciate you deeply — this win belongs to you just as much as it belongs to me.”
Reflecting on her journey from the Mr. Mexico Pro Show runner-up in 2024 to World Champion in 2025, Fung wrote,
“From Mr. Mexico Pro Show runner-up 2024, to winner in 2025, and now World Champion in Dubai 2025. What a journey it has been.”
A Defining Moment for Guyana and the Region
Fung’s success marks a historic milestone not just for Guyana, but for the wider Caribbean, underscoring the potential of regional athletes on the world stage. Her story — a blend of determination, sacrifice, and national pride — has inspired athletes across the region to dream bigger.
The Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation hailed Fung’s triumph as “a proud and defining moment for the sport,” adding that her achievement “cements Guyana’s name in the annals of world bodybuilding history.”
A Legacy of Inspiration
As she stood proudly with the Guyanese flag draped over her shoulders in Dubai, Rosanna Fung not only secured a global title — she also became a symbol of hope and perseverance.
Her victory, born from years of relentless training and resilience, signals a new era for Guyana’s sporting ambitions. In her own words,
“This win isn’t just mine; it’s ours, Guyana.”
