Recently I stood amidst an incredible crowd, brimming with humility, gratitude and excitement by the honour of assuming the role of CEO of Junior Achievement, Northern Alberta and Northwest Territories. My journey to this point has been unconventional, devoid of a traditional post-secondary degree. Yet, it’s a testament to the power of determination and the guidance of mentors and connectors who generously shared their knowledge and experience with me.
In reflecting on JA’s impact, I want to celebrate the successes, acknowledge the vital importance of our mission, and rally together to expand its reach. The role of JA in bridging the gap between classrooms and the real world cannot be overstated. By engaging leaders and influencers, we impart invaluable knowledge to students, emphasizing the value of education and illuminating the boundless possibilities that await them.
Junior Achievement (JA) stands as a beacon of hope, shaping the futures of young people—the budding entrepreneurs and future leaders of our cities. It’s more than an organization; it’s a global movement to equip the next generation with the skills and confidence needed in our ever-evolving world.
However, our work is far from complete. In the face of economic challenges, JA offers a solution. The students we educate today are the future workforce, the innovators, and the leaders waiting in the wings. The demand for our programs has soared, yet our reach remains limited. Imagine the transformative potential if we could expand into every school in Edmonton, across Northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories, unlocking the untapped talents of our youth.
JA is Canada’s largest financial literacy educator yet is reaching only a fraction of the eligible student population. The work we do directly and meaningfully impacts and transforms the lives of young individuals, shaping them into empowered, financially literate citizens ready to tackle the challenges ahead. The success stories emerging from JA are testament to the life-changing opportunities it offers. Young entrepreneurs have turned dreams into reality, and students from disadvantaged backgrounds have broken free from cycles of poverty, all thanks to the skills acquired through our programs.
This is the cause I’m so proud to support — a transformative investment in our future. Let’s fuel the potential of our youth. Beyond the numbers JA will shape futures, build communities and strengthen economies. The future is bright and I look forward to building it with you!
