Briefly describe your work journey that led to where you are today? Banking is my second career – I used to be a professional horse back rider and coach! In equestrian sport, I loved helping people grow in the sport and achieve goals whether…
Job Opportunity – Education Program Coordinator – Kitchener (16-week Contract; 35 hours/week; May – August 2025) JA South Western Ontario is a member of JA Canada and part of JA Worldwide (JA), the world’s largest not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating young people about business. Through the delivery…
As I sat at the kitchen table of his sister, Shelley, it took only minutes to learn two things: Larry was dearly missed 17 years after his death and Chatham had lost an incredible person. He was one of those people I instantly wished…
Flanagan Family of Flanagan Foodservice to be Inducted into Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame Kitchener, ON – February 12, 2025 – The Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame is proud to announce that the Flanagan family (Joe, Dee, Rick, Dan, Jeff and Murray)…
We’re proud to announce that JA Worldwide has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. JA South Western Ontario is a member of JA Worldwide. Nobel Peace Prize nominations may be received from heads of state, certain elected officials and cabinet members, university…
Knowing JA’s three pillars of financial health, work readiness, and entrepreneurship, how do you think being involved in JA learning experiences in your own schooling would have made a difference in your career? Having early exposure to financial literacy and entrepreneurship would have given…
After what I learned today I will take education more seriously.
– JA Student
Shawn Brown
JA Company Program Mentor 2008-present
About Shawn
Shawn is the Chief Operating Officer of HR Covered Inc., a human resource company that supports Canadian small businesses and not-for-profits with HR support, training, and compliance.
Shawn has been a mentor for the JA Company Program since 2008, supporting youth as they launch their own businesses.
Shawn’s JA Experience
I didn’t really know much about JA until a long-time mentor, Omar Hamid, presented the idea at our workplace. I was a young salesperson, looking to establish myself and I passed on the opportunity for a few years. I finally decided I would give it a shot one year, and now it’s been over 15 years.
I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing companies over those years. Every year is very different and I enjoy learning something new along with sharing my wisdom and experience with the achievers and the mentors. In my time I have also experienced seeing achievers move on to be successful entrepreneurs which gives me great satisfaction.
Advice to Students
Honestly, this is a real experience. In school, you can learn about business, but with JA you get to become an entrepreneur, and there’s no replacement for that experience. You’re either going to get that experience when you finish school or get it while you’re in school, so why not get a head start?
JA Impact
I opened a vending business shortly after starting with JA. I then started an HR Consulting company called HR Covered that we have now scaled up to support thousands of Canadian businesses and not-for-profit organizations.
JA has given me the belief that you can create something from an idea. That it’s worth the risk to create your own destiny. Year over year I watch the achievers in company programs go from brainstorming to execution and all the success that they see. I love seeing how they solve business challenges and every year and every company is different.
Meredith Bouckley
JA Company Program 1996-1997, Current JA World of Choices Career Mentor
About Meredith
Meredith is an Operational Risk Specialist with Libro Credit Union, contributing to their fraud prevention initiatives, operational risk event reporting, business community planning and branch management.
Meredith participated in the JA Company Program in 1996 and currently volunteers at the JASWO World of Choices conferences sharing about her career journey to help open up a world of choices to youth across Southwestern Ontario.
Meredith’s JA Experience
I joined the JA Company Program following a recommendation from a friend who had a great experience the year before. I remember being so nervous leading up to the first night. I had never joined anything like it and didn’t know any of the other students in my group/company. The leaders were fantastic, I quickly became comfortable and volunteered to be a leader of the company.
We made rice bags for hot and cold use and I became the purchaser of all the materials for our company. I quickly learned how to price out supplies needed to ensure we had the most amount of profit possible and our company worked hard on creating the product. I even used my past sewing experience to help train others in the company. It was a blast all year long and I looked forward to going every week to be with my new friends and build our company. The year ended with a weekend at a hotel with special events which was a fantastic way to end the year. My clearest memory from that weekend was having the power to punch through a wooden board and having a feeling of empowerment.
Advice to Students
Explore things you find of interest despite what your friend’s groups are doing. Being different and learning about yourself is rewarding and allows you to experience new things and meet great people.
JA Impact
The whole experience brought a new perspective to my future. I was not sure what I wanted to do “when I grew up” as I was coming towards the end of high school. I would not have entered the career I am in without JA. I thought everyone had to go to university to be successful. This experience steered me towards the world of business after learning about all the roles available that contribute to a successful company. As a result, I have had an amazing 20 years with Libro Credit Union in various roles which all started with learning about myself and business with JA. JA helped me look outside the box and find a career that is rewarding for me. I would not be where I am today without JA!
Anne Li
JA Company Program 2019-2023
About Anne
Anne Li is currently studying a double major in Marketing and Sociology at Brescia University College at Western University.
Anne participated in the JA Company Program each year during her high school education and has shared that her JA experience allowed her to be part of some amazing opportunities, and helped her love entrepreneurship.
Anne’s JA Experience
I’ve been involved with the JA Company Program during all my years of high school. Starting from Grade 9, my company made eco-friendly tree kits for consumers to plant. That year I was elected VP of Technology and we had a fun year. In Grade 10, I was part of an online company, where we sold workbooks for kids and parents to use if they were bored. Grade 11 was one of my most memorable years. That year, I was part of a company called Roof as the VP of Sales. Our main focus was to help homeless youth by supporting a non-profit in London, ON called Youth Opportunities Unlimited. We did this by selling a tote bag with a custom design and donating 33% of our profits to the organization. As the VP of Sales, I had to ensure that everyone reached their sales goal and monitored how to ensure the products reached the salespeople as the company was completely remote. That year, all the members were very motivated and we had great team spirit. We communicated frequently, not just about business, but we also became genuine friends (who I still talk to today) who urged each other to do better. Because of the motivation, each member surpassed their sales goals and we did well in all aspects! This hard work paid off as we won Company of the Year and were the best social enterprise in all of Canada. I won Sales VP of the Year, and this experience helped teach me a lot about how company morale matters. In Grade 12, I became President of my company. Although we had some struggles, mainly regarding team confidence, I was able to push my team to succeed and perform well. In the end, we succeeded in developing a successful company. I believe the skills learned helped me to achieve President of the Year and also provided insight into leadership and my future professional life.
JA gave me dozens of amazing opportunities. I was able to volunteer and speak about my Company Program experience at the Canadian Business Hall of Fame and the London & District Business Hall of Fame. These events were a great insight into the real business world and have motivated me to hopefully one day be invited back! JA has given me a lot of experience and made me love entrepreneurship, so much so that I have decided to pursue business in the future!
Advice to Students
Sometimes the struggle is part of the process and you need to be able to overcome it to see how far you’ve come.
JA Impact
My JA experience has provided me with various opportunities and skills that I use today. For example, JA didn’t just teach me about starting a business, it taught me the personal skills and life skills I need for the future. Things like communication, leadership, logical thinking, and the willpower to experience struggles and hardship. All these skills apply to my current and future successes.
Stephen McCabe
JA In-Class Learning Experiences 2005-2006, JA Company Program 2012
About Stephen
Stephen McCabe is the CEO of Northern Devs, a software development company, and Co-Founder of QuickCasa an AI lead qualification company for real estate and leasing professionals.
Since a young age, Stephen has had an entrepreneurial mindset, which drove him to run small businesses during high school. Since then, he has been a part of numerous tech startups, with the experience culminating in his companies today. Now he helps other businesses succeed through tech development and support.
Stephen’s JA Experience
In JA In-Class workshops, I learned the fundamentals of business processes, including cost of goods, pricing, markup, sales production, and bottlenecks. The following year, we built on these concepts by creating business plans, finding suppliers, managing staffing and sales, setting prices, calculating break-even points, and handling marketing, advertising, and inventory management. We applied the knowledge from this to sell chocolate bars at recess to fellow students. I remember the excitement from students who enjoyed the preparation and planning when calculating how we could succeed.
I learned about the JA Company Program from an in-class workshop hosted in my high school business class. I remember pitchingducktape wallets to my group, and our team began our work from there. Shortly into deliberation, we were encouraged to expand our horizons and be creative. We then pivoted into ducktape book bags. I was voted to be the CEO of Rainstorm Co. (the name was based on the idea that we would be keeping books dry in the rain). Going into production, we found that our early samples did not look promising as a sellable product. One of my friends had a great idea that got us off the ground with an idea that would work, with creative and custom phone cases. This was the era when custom phone cases were very desirable and trendy. We now had a great product to sell and began offering these to fellow students at our school.
Advice to Students
There are two things I would share:
Ask Questions. I struggled tremendously with asking questions about anything when I was in class. I thought it made me look stupid when I showed that I didn’t know something. Little did I know that I would ask questions every day to people who were around me. Not knowing is never a problem; not learning is always a problem.
Just try it. I wish I had taken some chances and tried some programs that I was curious about. As an unsure and anxious kid in high school, I didn’t jump for some truly unique experiences that I now regret missing.
JA Impact
My journey with JA has been an adventure, laying the groundwork for my entrepreneurial spirit and teaching me the joy of transforming ideas into reality. From selling energy drinks in high school to leading tech startups, JA instilled in me a deep understanding of business fundamentals and the importance of teamwork and adaptability. These experiences shaped my professional path and fueled my passion for mentoring and guiding fellow entrepreneurs with warmth and enthusiasm.
Piriya Karthikeyan
JA Company Program 1997-2000
About Piriya
Piriya Karthikeyan is a Program Manager with AVEVA, an information technology consulting company.
Piriya is also a Board Director with Junior Achievement South Western Ontario.
Piriya’s JA Experience
During my time at JA, we created products such as candles, gift baskets, stress balls, clear organizers, and magnetic dry-erase boards. Even though it has been over 24 years, the lessons and skills I gained from JA remain relevant and impactful in my life. It was truly a transformative experience for me.
The CANJAC and OJAC conferences provided beautiful memories and experiences, including the unforgettable moment from the conference, “Are you a turtle?”. The laughter, the fun, and the valuable lessons from both our successful and unsuccessful products were unforgettable.
Advice to Students
My advice to high school students is to seize every opportunity that comes your way. We are fortunate to have access to numerous opportunities that might not be available in other parts of the world. Build your connections, start small, start early, and start now!
JA Impact
My experience with JA from grade 9 to 12 has been instrumental in shaping my success. During those formative years, I developed a wide range of skills and knowledge through hands-on experience in building and marketing products. These activities taught me essential business and leadership skills, from product development to sales strategies. The transformative impact of JA is evident in the way it ingrained in me a strong foundation of entrepreneurial thinking and problem-solving abilities. In summary, the skills, lessons, and values I gained from JA have been pivotal to my professional journey, shaping me into a strategic, resilient, and community-oriented leader.
Nick Lavery
JA Company Program 2008-2013
About Nick
Nick Lavery is the owner of Take5 Digital and Gotham Studios, specializing in digital marketing, media production, and creative storytelling to help brands elevate their presence and connect with their audiences.
Nick’s JA Experience
The Company Program was a regular part of my week for all four years of high school. The program was an opportunity for me to connect with awesome mentors and peers from other schools who I would otherwise never have met. I am still connected with many of these people.
It was also an opportunity for me to learn the basics about how a business works; from ideation through to sourcing, marketing, and sales. And perhaps most importantly, it’s where I honed my sales skills and built confidence in my interpersonal skills. It was an invaluable experience that gave me the confidence to launch my own business which I still operate today with my team.
Advice to Students
If you are interested in business, give the Company Program a try, and dive in head first. Today’s leaders will be tomorrow’s leaders… so be a leader!
JA Impact
JA had a direct impact on my success as an entrepreneur through the skills, knowledge, network, and confidence that it provided me.
Michael Weinstein
JA Company Program 1978-1982
About Michael
Michael Weinstein owns a live event company specialising in providing technical support for large-scale meetings. This support includes sound, video distribution, and control systems, and can also include professional pyrotechnology such as firework displays.
Michael completed the JA Company Program between 1978-1982.
Michael’s JA Experience
I joined JA when I was in Grade 10 in High School. A person I know from high school was involved with JA and he recommended it to me. I went to one of the early meetings, and I really enjoyed it. I attended 3 provincial conferences and 2 national conferences and among other benefits, I met an international delegate from Barbados and we are still good comrades to this day, I have visited Barbados at least 5 times with plans to go back soon.
I participated in Toastmasters, which was one of the extra programs offered on Saturday Mornings. I was actually successful in our internal competition and was a guest speaker at our end-of-the-year banquet for all the JA attendees- back then it was called “FUB” which stood for Future Unlimited Banquet.
Advice to Students
The only advice I can offer to students in high school right now is to get involved in any activities you can without letting those activities affect your marks. I got involved with the school canteen in grade 9, I was involved with building a float for a major parade in our city, and running the school newspaper long before laser printers even existed.
JA Impact
My JA experience gave me the power to have real-world experience in a “safe” environment. It provided the opportunity to try things without the fear of failure or losing money and the guidance of adult advisors to help provide some gentle guidance.
As a result of a feature JA offered, we did an “executive exchange” where, as President of our JA Company, I was able to meet with a high-ranking officer of our sponsoring company. That actually led to a summer job for me for one year.
JA Company program really helped shape my career and where I am now. I own my own company and have owned it for about 30+ years. Thank you Junior Achievement!
Crystal Kyabaggu
JA Company Program 2007-2010
About Crystal
Crystal Kyabaggu is the Senior Director of Finance at Young People’s Theatre, a professional theatre for young audiences located in Toronto, Ontario. She completed her Bachelor of Arts, Honours Business Administration, with Ivey Business School at Western University, specializing in Accounting.
Crystal was a JA Company Program Participant (2007-2010) and has volunteered as a Company Program Mentor, Camp Counselor with JA Startup Camp, Master of Ceremonies at the LBHF, and Economics for Success Program Facilitator all between 2010-2021.
She has also participated as a National Ambassador with JA Canada (2013-2016), as Lead Youth Representative-Academic Advisory Committee with JA Canada (2015-2016), and as a Canadian Delegate at the 2019 Global Alumni Conference with JA Worldwide.
Crystal’s JA Experience
I joined JA in Grade 10 based on a tip from a friend who said it was a place to make money. Little did I know, the experience would lead to so much more. As a student, I loved learning about the different elements of entrepreneurship. Highlights included conducting sales training as VP of Sales for our at-home herb gardens, smashing our goals winning VP Sales of the Year, and attending the Next Generation’s Leaders conference and connecting with national and international JA students. Another favourite memory I had was attending and speaking at the Canadian Business Hall of Fame as a Deloitte Inspiration Award Recipient.
Advice to Students
(1) Apply for scholarships and awards. (2) Success is great, but you’ll learn a lot more from mistakes. Don’t be afraid of failure, just be ready to learn from it. (3) Put yourself out there and make connections with your peers, they could be your business partners in the future!
JA Impact
The JA Company Program allowed me to uncover and develop my business skills. On a personal side, overcoming challenges and succeeding in new situations infused me with confidence and built up my self-esteem.
I have made valuable connections and friendships with local and international alumni, and genuinely attribute my pursuit of purpose-driven lifestyle to key lessons I learned at JA.
Check out Crystal speaking about her JA Experience back in 2011:
David Parkinson
JA Company Program 1988-1989
About David
David Parkinson is a Podcaster, Content Creator, and Co-Host for the show Rejected Central, a podcast about the lighter side of rejection.
David says he had a fantastic time at JA as part of the JA Company Program.
David’s JA Experience
I had a fantastic time at JA! We created these clocks made of fabric, wood, and lace. I was the VP of Production for a time until I stepped down due to other responsibilities. I made many great friends there, and the mentors offered incredible advice. I still speak with a couple of people from that program from time to time. It was a wonderful experience where I made friends, gained confidence and learned a lot!
Advice to Students
Learn to be a great teammate and possibly a mentor some day. It’ll take you far.
JA Impact
Reflecting on my experience at JA, I can see this is where I started to learn about teamwork and human relations. I felt that this helped me grow stronger socially.
Melissa Sariffodeen
JA Company Program 2003-2004
About Melissa
Melissa Sariffodeen is the CEO & Co-Founder of Canada Learning Code, a nonprofit organization that promotes digital literacy by offering coding and technology education to people of all ages across Canada.
Together, her team has created almost 1 million meaningful learning experiences for people across Canada. They operate in 30 cities across Canada and have raised more than $25M in funding from North America’s leading technology and financial institutions including the first cryptocurrency donation in Canada.
Barbie recognizes Melissa Sariffodeen, CEO and Co-Founder of Canada Learning Code, as a Barbie Role Model with a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll in her likeness. (CNW Group/Mattel Canada, Inc.)
Melissa’s JA Experience
From a very young age, I was entrepreneurial but maybe didn’t recognize it in myself. I created a monthly newspaper for my street selling Ads for $0.50, restarted my school canteen to resell Kernel’s popcorn, and created little websites from scratch. It wasn’t until my experience with JA though that I really got an opportunity to build with others. After lots of promising ideas, we created a holiday candle product we knew we could sell. I can still remember being in the London office after school assembling kits, talking through pricing and then ultimately bringing some home to sell. Proof of concept! My time in the Company Program was also pre-social media, so I remember fondly that JA was such an important part of growing my own social network and skills. I made new friends – some I’m still in touch from time-to-time with today!
Advice to Students
There are an endless amount of opportunities out there work-wise including ones you create for yourself so trying different activities or skills is such a great way of deciding what you don’t want to do as much as what you want to. All of the experiences – whether it’s extracurricular, work, sports or other – you collect are going to help you create a unique journey for yourself – so just keep at it.
JA Impact
While it might not come to mind instantly when I think about my entrepreneurial journey, it was absolutely an important part of it. I attended the Company Program at a time when I was still debating between a career in medical sciences (dentist or doctor), law or “business”. The experience definitely helped solidify for me that I wanted to pursue a career in business and then ultimately I did go on to study general management in post-secondary.
Bagnetic
JA Company Program 2024-2025
About Bagnetic
Our mission is to deliver innovative, high-quality, and compact multi-purpose bags that enhance convenience in everyday life while promoting sustainability. By donating 20% of our profits to Urban Roots London, we are committed to advancing sustainable practices, supporting initiatives tackling food insecurity, and making a positive impact in our community.
Our mission is to empower teens and young adults to prioritize mental wellness with self-care packages. We help them manage stress and embrace sustainable practices, while fostering an inclusive atmosphere through community engagement and ethical operations. Our goal is to promote self-care, mindfulness, and a healthier, balanced future for everyone.
As a student-led company, our mission is to create unique, high-quality bags featuring minimalist designs inspired by nature in order to bring awareness to the environment and its need for protection. We are committed to ethical production, and using quality materials. Our goal is to offer our highly valued customers original designs that capture the beauty of clean landscapes and the natural world.
At Hoodie Persona, our mission is empower self-expression through comfortable, trendy, and sustainable designs. We believe hoodie is more than just appeal – it’s a canvas for individuality and a source of comfort. We aim to inspire confidence and aesthetics through quality and design.
Rebook is dedicated to reviving literacy and fostering a love for reading by recycling, and redistributing books within our community. As an impact driven Junior Achievement company, we aim to reduce waste, promote access to literature, and empower individuals through donating 50% of our profits to literacy based charities. Every book we collect fuels our commitment to creating a more literate, sustainable, and connected world.
At Hood Labs, our mission is to empower teens to express themselves through customizable, trend-setting hoodies that combine creativity, comfort, and purpose. We aim to inspire confidence with motivational designs while giving back to causes that matter, creating a positive impact on our world and community.
JA Company Program 1991-1994, Volunteer in the Company Program (29 years), NGL/CANJAC (15 years), Economics for Success.
About Omar
Omar Hamid is the Director of Sales at McLean Co., and recently completed his EMBA at the University of Fredericton and has worked in two family businesses.
Omar was a JA Company Program Participant in both Trinidad (1991) and Toronto (1992-1994). He is a current Volunteer for JA Company Program (29 years), and has been a dedicated volunteer supporter of NGL/CANJAC (15 years) and JA Economics for Success.
Omar’s JA Experience
I have great memories as an Achieve in the program in Trinidad and in Mississauga. One year our company in Mississauga our JA company ran a store in a mall (Erin Mills Town Center) and charged all of the other JA companies a fee to have their products in our store and a commission for anything sold.
As a volunteer over the past 29 years I’ve had the pleasure and honor to work with amazing Achievers, Volunteers and Sponsors. Coaching and mentoring Achievers is truly rewarding! Volunteering with JA has also continued to help me grow as a leader, business professional, and as a person. I continue to learn from the Achievers and Volunteers I work with every year! One of the highlights for me was attending 15 NGL/CANJAC! This was a great opportunity to work, learn and collaborate with achievers and volunteers from around the world! It’s great seeing many of the achievers I embark on their own entrepreneurial journey. JA continues to be a huge part of my life and my success!
Advice to Students
Constantly seek out new experiences. Join clubs, try out for sports teams, volunteer. You will learn more about yourself and the world by fully participating.
Embrace Challenges, see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Even if you can’t overcome a challenge, you’ll still develop as a person.
Set Goals (SMART). Goals are the outcome you are hoping to achieve. After setting your goals, build your strategy and tactics to achieve these goals. What will you do, when, how. Constantly evaluate your progress and adjust your strategies and tactics as needed. Celebrate your millstone successes!
Read, or listen to podcasts, Develop an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a trait of lifelong learning.
JA Impact
As an Achiever JA thought me the value of hard work, persistency, and team work. Learning to work in a group towards a common goal, addressing team challenges, and staying resilient in the face of setbacks are just a few of the key traits I learned and honed at JA.
As a Volunteer and mentor in with JA I’ve learned what it truly means to be a coach, and mentor. Helping Achievers grow and realist their full potential is a very rewarding and fulfilling experience. Volunteering with JA has also been a great way for me to contribute to my community and give back to the program that gave me so much.
Wick n’ Wonder
JA Company Program 2024-2025
About Wick n’ Wonder
At Wick n’ Wonder, we believe that a candle is more than just a source of light – it’s an experience. Our handcrafted candles are designed to delight and inspire, revealing hidden messages as they burn, offeringa moment of surprise, joy, and reflection. Crafted with eco-friendly soy wax, clean cotton wicks, and non-toxic fragrances, our products provide a sensory journey that supports sustainable living. Whether through uplifting affirmations, whimsical quotes, or personalized messages, we aim to bring positivity, relaxation, and connection to our customers. As we grow, we are committed to giving back to our community and fostering deeper bonds with our customers, ensuring that every candle purchased helps illuminate a brighter, more thoughtful world.
At Clink, we turn simple alumninum pop tabs into something extraordinary. We strive to reduce unnecessary waste, spark creativity, and build a stronger, more sustainable community. We are dedicated to providing our customers with affordable, customizable keychains that serve as meaningful gifts or personal keepsakes. We are guided by the values of respect, collaboration, transparency, and accountability, creating a supportive environment for our team while delivering quality products. Clink is more than a business – we are a movement for connection, creativity, and change.
Nieve strives to produce quality, stylish, unique, and functional winter hats to the people of our community. We aim to do this while also support those who are in need of these crucial resources in an environment like Canada. We hope to always keep what is important in mind all of the time and donate a margin of our profits to charity.
Building bonds, bead by bead. Our goal is to create a fun activity for young people who want to create an everlasting memory through a unique bead making experience.
Our mission as Bask-it-All is to deliver thoughtfully created gift baskets that bring joy, conveinence, and comfort to every occasion. We are committed to providing high-quality, customizable gifts that make every moment memorable, whether it’s a special holiday or just a gift for yourself or a loved one. We are committed in instilling a sense of caring in the hearts of every customer through our personal hand-made additions to every basket combined with our CSR, The Ronald McDonald House.
At Bloom Bracelets, we are passionate about preserving the beauty of nature through our commitment to flowers and their substantial role in our ecosystem. We believe when we plant a flower, we are not only enhancing our surrounding but also fostering a sense of hope and renewal. We plan on donating 20% of all our profits to Reforest London, with the goal of creating greener spaces and enhancing biodiversity. Purchase our Bloom Bracelet to play a part in protecting, promoting, and preserving the gift and beauty the world has.
Robert Atkinson currently works in Data Center Operations at Western University. He’s been a JA Volunteer for 29 years, having supported Company Program, Business Basics, and Economics of Success
Robert’s JA Experience
As a student I was in a “Company of the Year” in the company program. As a mentor I have enjoyed working with smart, articulate and energetic Achievers that have helped me retain my “spirit of youth”. My JA experience has given me more confidence in connecting and networking with people.
Advice to Students
Don’t let your work define who you are as a person. Work is important, but it’s not all that you need to focus on in life.
Erica McAlister
JA Company Program 2016-2017
About Erica
Erica McAlister got her start at JA. She fell in love with entrepreneurship and has continued down the entrepreneurship path. Erica ran a window cleaning franchisee with college pro when she was in university. She is now an advisor with Sun Life, running her own financial business through them.
Erica’s JA Experience
Erica has been volunteering at JA for three years and enjoys teaching in the class and mentoring at JA Company Program. She says JA has impacted her career and what she wanted to do with her life.
Reflection for Students
I am so lucky with the financial knowledge I gained at a young age. It had a massive impact on my life.
Don Critelli
JA Volunteer since 2004
About Don
Don Critelli is a retired Sales Professional who has always been passionate about evolving technologies both from a software and hardware perspective. His sales career began in the family furniture business at a very young age. His father always spent time mentoring him from warehouse duties, deliveries and providing the best customer experience. It was his father’s confidence in Don’s work habits and ethics that made Don choose to work in a variety of sales positions. He is very grateful for the mentors he had during his sales career. There were many occasions when coworkers and managers would volunteer their time to help Don when he needed it the most. Don continues to help others through his volunteer work at the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce, YMCA Immigration Employment Services and Junior Achievement.
Don’s JA Experience
I think I have volunteered for JA for almost 20 years in a variety of roles. (Board of Directors for 7 or 9 years, fund raising activities, Golf Committee Chair, Taught Grade 7 & 8 Economics for Success, and participated in all events)
As golf committee chair the tournament frequently raised between $22,000 and $33,000.Just experiencing the friendships with fellow board members that always went far beyond what was expected because we all agreed it was essential for JA at that time. We enjoyed every minute of it.
What Don wishes he knew in High school
I wish I could have taken part of the JA Company Program. I wish knew more about companies, organizational structure, and the basic principles around business. I didn’t understand any of this until I attended a Two-Year Marketing coarse at Mohawk College.
JA Impact
I have met many great people and It definitely contributed to some of my success as a sales professional and volunteer. I also learned a lot about the responsibilities of a Board Member.
Kimberly Watters
JA Volunteer since 2014
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a mom of 2 beautiful daughters and a “Nana” to 2 amazing grandchildren. She has worked for RBC for over 35 years. She is currently the Sr. Mgr. of Regional Capacity Planning for SWO responsible for identify improvement opportunities in the efficiency, effectiveness and enablement in workforce planning and scheduling. She loves to foster environments that embrace change and learning opportunities. She thrives in helping our communities prosper and is a dedicated volunteer in the community in a variety of roles.
Kimberly’s JA Experience
I originally started with JA in Spring of 2014 facilitating the program delivery for Economics for Success and World of Choice Career Fairs. I took a pause Dec 2018 as I made a career change that had a little bit of a learning curve. I became an active JA volunteer again in the fall of 2020 aligned to the Virtual Dollars and Sense Program and joined the virtual World of Choices team.
I had always wanted to be a teacher, educate youth, help grow and develop the future of our youth. I had volunteered with Girl Guides for a while and was looking for a new volunteer opportunity. JA seems to fit right in with my personal and work vision and values. RBC helps support initiatives that assist youth is realizing and obtaining their full potential and JA felt like it was a perfect fit.
I thrive in my work and family life balance in a high paced change environment. Our youth will have to be able to be flexible, agile and resilient as they become young adults. I am very passionate about contributing to their learning and help them understand how to be set up for success as they start to plan their life’s journey. Knowledge and understanding will help them build a foundation.
Advice to JA Volunteers
To anyone considering volunteering I would say, “Lean in, all the way”. The students will help and guide you. There is no right or wrong but there is a wonderful journey that you take together. Go inspire others to be the best version of themselves that they can be.
JA Impact
I love getting into a classroom (F2F or virtual) and listen to the students open up like a flower blooming. The inquiries start, usually with a few very basic questions but the momentum builds and they start to get more inquisitive. The direction starts to shift toward big life situations that feel like they are way ahead of them but will happened before they know it.
Volunteering with JA from 2020 to now, particularly during COVID, has helped fill a void. It gave me a sense of purpose and belonging. Inspiring them, helped inspire me to volunteer. Hoping make a difference, impacting one student at a time. It made my half empty heart, fill full again.
I get all giggle excited when I see resumes or interview candidates that were previous JA participants. The ability inspire and to watch our youth grow and plan for their futures is very rewarding.
Taylor McRae
JA Company Program 2012-2016
About Taylor
Taylor is the Tournament & Grants Coordinator at Wesley Clover Parks. She has a Joint Honours BSocSci in Political Science and Philosophy as well as a Masters Degree in Political Science with a focus on Neuropolitics both from University of Ottawa
She does use knowledge that she learned during her studies everyday in her work. As a competition organizer and grant writer/manager she is constantly working alongside government organizations and provincial/territorial sport organizations (PTSOs). However, equestrian sport organization is not a typical path following a degree in political science or philosophy. She loved working toward her degrees in post-secondary education and will perhaps go back for another degree someday. She says there is always room and time for more learning!
Taylor also has her own business on the side where she does grant management, event coordination, and executive administration. She truly enjoys the work she does in her small business, whether it be helping provincial organizations to run large scale events, consulting on grants for emerging NPOs, or even acting as a day of wedding coordinator! Her small business allows her to pursue all of her passions and help others succeed in their goals.
Taylor’s JA Experience
My four years as a company program student open the doors to a wealth of opportunities. Throughout my time with the program I had fabulous mentors like Karen Chafe, Omar Hamid & Robert Atkinson among many others. During the program I also was able to chat frequently with Lesley Quesnelle and Bev Robinson who were always more than willing to share their wealth of knowledge with students like myself. My favourite memories include end of term trips to InfoTech which certainly upped the ante of final board meetings and always included a tour of the inspiring facility. Experiences like this helped me to shape what I looked for in a future career and how I wanted to show up and perform each day. My favourite product made during my time in company program was with the company ‘Centsibility’ during my final year in the program. Our company focused on a simple product, the ‘Save, Spend, Share Jars’ coupled with a financial literacy program. The term felt like a great finale to a wonderful four years.
In my final two years of company program I also spent time volunteering and then later working with Camp Business Basics and Camp CEO. The six weeks of camp each summer were always so inspiring to see kids brainstorm, produce, and then sell their products each week on an ultra accelerated timeline. Regardless of monetary success everyone walked away each week having learned something which was phenomenal to see.
I have also been lucky since moving to Ottawa to volunteer on and off with Company Program. Albert Wong, director of JA Ottawa leads a phenomenal team delivering JA programming across the city. I have volunteered with JA Ottawa both in person and also as a virtual mentor during the pandemic. Working with students via the program never ceases to amaze and inspire me as each year students come back with bigger, better and more brilliant ideas than ever before.
Advice to Students
My favourite pieces of advice to give to high school students are a) to take their time and b) to try a little bit of everything.
We truly live in a world of specialization and this can be somewhat to our detriment. While it is different from my direct experience, from my time working as a student advisor during university I’ve learned that taking an extra year or two to take time between high school and university/college/trades school can make a world of difference and save someone thousands of dollars. Highschool goes by in the blink of an eye and what you think you want at 17 or 18 will most likely be different than what you want at 22 or 27.
My second piece of advice to try a little bit of everything is something to hone in on while in high school, try as many clubs as possible, say yes to different experiences, and seek out programs like JA. What this will do is give you the chance to explore what you like and who you are outside of the classroom which in turn will help you to shape what you might like to do in the future.
Everyone always thought I’d be a lawyer, even myself. I had always done horseback riding so when I got to university, naturally, I joined the school’s team. As part of being on the team, we had to host one competition annually. Over the course of doing so for four years, I fell in love with competition organizing. Coming out of my undergrad there was an opportunity to be an event assistant at Wesley Clover Parks. I continued that work through my masters and now today after a brief time away writing grants and funding for a major defense company, I am back at Wesley Clover Parks doing something I love every day. Had I not participated in extracurriculars I would’ve never discovered a way to pursue my passion as a career.uable, providing better preparation for life and future careers, regardless of the chosen industry.
JA Impact
JA gave me a really solid foundation, helping me to center and organize my work ethic towards what I am passionate about. Via my experience with JA I learned how to be a leader but I also learned how to be a great team member. From my mentors I learned how to show up prepared and organized so that I could maximize the most of our short time together. I am confident, efficient and effective in all that I take on and I believe a large part of that can be attributed to my time in JA’s various programs and the phenomenal mentors I spent time with.
Callie Sweet
Camp Business Basics 2014,2016, JA Company Program 2021-2023, Speech & Debate Program 2022, JA Camp StartUp Counsellor 2023
About Callie
Callie is currently a first year student at the University of Waterloo in the Honours Arts and Business Co-op program, majoring in Communication Arts and Design Practice (CADP) and minoring in Political Science. She is also the Marketing Coordinator with the Arts and Business Society at the University of Waterloo.
Callie is involved in the entrepreneurship community at the University of Waterloo through Velocity, our business incubator, and Greenhouse at United College, a social impact incubator. I am also involved in building the new Creative Hub at Velocity. In the coming years, I hope to help many fellow entrepreneurs build their brand identities through Velocity.
Callie’s JA Experience
My experience with JA started with the summer camp back when it was still called Business Basics. I attended the camp for two years. Later, in high school, I participated in the Company Program.
I was the VP of Marketing for the Roseate Collection 2021-2022 Company Program, driving change in the mental health community through a love of reading by selling bookmarks featuring positive affirmations and building an online community of readers.
I was also the President of the Spark Change Club 2022-2023 Company Program, facilitating community partnerships to raise money and awareness surrounding the devastating February 2022 earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria.
In 2022, I was recognized as VP of Marketing of the Year in the JASWO charter. In 2023, I was honoured with the Brayl Copp Business Leader Award. In both years I received the Company Leadership Award and represented my company at the Dragons’ Lair Trade Show and Pitch Competition.
After graduating from the Company Program, I returned to JA as a Summer Camp Counsellor to share my love for entrepreneurship and to inspire campers.
JA continues to be a fantastic way to connect with like-minded individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit and a drive for social change. I made some of my closest friends and professional connections through the JA community, and the mentorship of fellow members of the JA network has helped me launch my future career in marketing.
Advice to Students
My advice for high school students is to participate in activities related to their future career aspirations. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore their interests and gain experience that will be beneficial in the future.
JA Impact
My experience with JA has been valuable for my professional growth in the business world. Not only has it helped me improve my performance, but it has also contributed to my business education. I have been able to apply many of the concepts I learned in my degree courses to my experiences with JA.
Danielle Corcoran
JA Company Program 1986 – 1987
About Danielle
Danielle is the Owner/Money Coach of The Corcoran Coaching Group.
She received a tourism and business degree from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax in 1991. She worked in the hotel and tourism industry for many years prior to graduation, however the last 20 years she stayed in business, but not in tourism.
She owned Floor Source in St. John’s Newfoundland. This was a flooring and kitchen cabinetry store. This lasted for almost 10 years and was a multi million dollar operation, however, due to builders going bankrupt and not paying their invoices, they had to close our operation, not from lack of business, but due to cash flow. Due to the level of mental stress this caused Danielle, she decided to get more educated around money and became a Financial advisor. She then pivoted into coaching others about money and helping individuals, families and entrepreneurs on money management through The Corcoran Coaching Group.
Danielle’s JA Experience
We lived in a Steel town, and our product was pen set made out of a railway tie made from scrap metal from Sydney Steel. We got the product for free. We had to file it down to a smooth product and drill holes for pens, and then sent the product to be dipped in chrome. Once returned we attached the pens and sold it for $16.95. A student’s dad’s company did the chrome for us, but we ended up getting a large amount of pre-orders, and they got overwhelmed with the amount they were doing for us, so they increased the cost. Our issue was now we didn’t feel we could increase our prices on the pre-orders. At the end of the day, we broke even, but didn’t make any money and we didn’t manage to fulfill all of the orders. We won best product of the year nationally and I won Comptroller of the year and The Schulich Award for Entrepreneurship scholarship of $1500.
Advice to Students
Money is the one subject that doesn’t seem to get taught to students, whether it’s through parents or the school system. I would encourage high school students to learn basic money management concepts. Learn about how to use credit cards properly, what a credit score is and why it’s important, budgeting, and what to do today to reach long term goals such as buying a home and retirement. The internet has amazing content and courses, and parents are a good resource to have money conversations.
I feel that money is still considered a taboo topic and my company’s mission is to normalize money conversations. Learn how money works, learn how to save before spending, paying yourself first, and how compound interest works. I believe parents can start teaching simple strategies as early as 5 years old with allowances to teach these topics and more. Money is a tool and should be used to teach kids and young adults today for preparing for the future.
I would let kids know that it’s important to understand that we have an relationship with money and the better our relationship with money is, the more money we will have. I would tell students that making money isn’t the goal. The goal is the freedom and opportunities that money offers, and making money and managing it properly is vital to having the life you want in the future.
I wish I really understood how compound interest and investing worked when I was younger and took advantage of being young and investing early. Even though I met with Financial advisors in my 20s they weren’t explaining it in terms that I understood and I felt embarrassed that I didn’t understand what they were telling me. When I saw my investment lose money, I took it out. lol.
So today, I make sure I teach young people about why money is a critical tool to learn how to use and how it impacts every aspect of your life and something you need everyday for the rest of your life.
JA Impact
As the controller of my JA Company, I learned about bookkeeping. I have always enjoyed working with numbers and today educating others on how to manage their own money can be directly related to my experience with JA, especially when I work with entrepreneurs.
Dan Knight
JA Company Program 2005 – 2007
About Dan
Dan Knight is the Frontline Ministry Director at Forest City Community Church. He took an event management program at Mount Royal University. Dan took part in JA Company Program at JA South Western Ontario from 2005-2007, also participating in CANJAC and the Tiger Woods Course. He credits JA with giving him the skills to start the event and wedding planning business he has run for 12 years. Dan currently also supports Junior Achievement as a JA Company Program Volunteer Mentor!
Dan’s JA Experience
JA really helped me to come out of my shell and sparked my entreneurship journey! I remember making chalkboards one year, wine bottle holder another and metal bookmarks and necklaces another year. I remember going to Montreal for CANJAC where I got to meet other JA students from around the world.
Advice to Students
Check out programs like JA as early as you can as it’s going to benefit you in more ways than one.
JA Impact
JA helped me become who I am today. I was super shy entering JA and the programs helped me overcome that.
Jenna Goodhand
JA Company Program 2000-2002
About Jenna
Jenna Goodhand participated in the JA Company Program in London, Ontario from 2000-2002. She currently operates two public businesses and a private consultation and coaching practice. She is the owner and CEO of Cafézia Coffee, a company that manufactures wellness coffee that reduces the negative effects of caffeine, while enhancing the positive ones. She is also the founder and owner of Speaker Comfort and Confidence, a public training and certification for enhancing public speaking skills.
Jenna did her undergrad at the University of Waterloo in Peace and Conflict Studies and Political Science and her Masters in International Economic Relations at an international school in Hungary.
Jenna’s JA Experience
I participated in two years of the Company Program. The first year I was super shy but by the second year I took on the role of president for my company. Both years my company sold the same product; A Night at the Movies at Home. This included a large popcorn bowl with two cans of pop, two bags of microwaveable popcorn, two chocolate bars and a coupon for pizza. It was $10 and probably weighed 10 pounds as we walked door-to-door and neighbourhood to neighbourhood. 😉
Advice to Students
Try out as many different things in your life as possible. Maybe that’s a business idea, maybe that’s exploring a topic you know nothing about or engaging with a group of people you don’t think you have anything in common with. If you think that you have a talent or an idea, and imagining yourself living in a way where you get to act that talent or idea out makes you excited and nervous at the same time, you owe it to yourself to move one step closer in the direction of that calling to see what happens. Also, you can reinvent your life as many times as you want!
JA Impact
I have never stopped being an entrepreneur since my days at Junior Achievement. From a vegan cupcake business in University to a Coworking Community Space out of an old farmhouse, I continue to explore and create businesses that reflect my passions and human needs.
Junior Achievement taught me that you can get started with just a piece of paper and an idea. You don’t need an elaborate business plan. You don’t need a team. You just need to believe in a vision and take that first action towards making it real.
Debbi Jarvis (Bruce)
JA Company Program 1966-67
About Debbi
Debbi is a Retired Nurse and was the Director of a Resource Centre/Bookstore.
She says her JA experience made her more confident and curated an ability to speak in front of an audience.
Her JA Memories
The one year the first product we made was gold spray-painted Christmas wreaths made of old computer punch cards. The second one I can remember was coasters made of plastic that was shaped in a mold. In my second year I was vice president, likely of production, as we had no HR in those days. I remember the banquets at the Ivanhoe Curling Club and other small parties we held on site. I actually met a boy there from another high school (Beal) that I started to date (for over a year), which was just before I met my husband. I attended Beck Secondary School during the time I was a member.
Advice to Students
Get as much varied experiences as you can while you’re young!
Zoe Burness
JA Company Program 2012-2015
About Zoe
Zoe Burness has had a multi-faceted and extensive experience with Junior Achievement (JA) programs. They participated in the JA Company Program as a student in 2012 and 2015 and also served as a mentor in 2017. Their involvement with JA extended to the Business Basics summer camp, where they started as a camper and eventually became a volunteer and camp counsellor. Zoe further contributed to JA by delivering in-class programs from 2016 to 2018. Zoe has been closely associated with JA South Western Ontario and JA Ottawa, and their journey with JA ultimately led them to their current role as the Program Manager for the Company Program and camp at JA South Western Ontario.
Their JA Experience
Zoe’s JA journey began with the JA summer camp at the age of 11. They attended the camp for three consecutive summers, crafting various items and forming cherished memories. Over the years, they transitioned from camper to volunteer and then to camp counsellor, spending five summers in roles that helped shape the experiences of other young participants. In addition to their camp involvement, Zoe participated in the JA Company Program twice during high school, where their teams created products like infinity scarves and bath bombs. Their commitment to JA extended to mentoring a JA Ottawa team during their time at the university, and they have continued to be involved with JA in various capacities.
Advice to Students
Zoe encourages high school students not to fear failure. They emphasize that taking risks and attempting challenging tasks can lead to valuable learning experiences, regardless of the outcome. Zoe’s journey with JA, which took them out of their comfort zone and provided opportunities to build confidence and explore new possibilities, serves as a testament to the personal growth that can come from embracing challenges.
Their Impact
Zoe’s dedication to JA is evident in their role as the Program Manager for the Company Program and camp at JA South Western Ontario. Through their work, they continue to inspire and empower young individuals, helping them develop essential skills and confidence. Their journey from a shy teenager to a leader within JA demonstrates the transformative potential of JA programs and the lasting impact they can have on individuals and their communities.
Maysee McLean
JA Company Program 2017-2019
About Maysee
Maysee McLean participated in the Junior Achievement (JA) Company Program in Strathroy, Ontario, during the academic years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019. Her journey in JA included creating innovative products, such as the Catch Board and Arbor’s Art, and winning accolades like Best Product and JA Dragon’s Lair Finalist. Maysee’s post-secondary education led her to Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson), where she studied Media Production.
Her JA Experience
Maysee’s introduction to JA occurred during a high school business class presentation, sparking her interest in the Company Program. In her first year as the VP of Marketing, Maysee’s team developed the Catch Board, a practical and aesthetically pleasing product made from repurposed pallets. The success of this venture, winning Best Product and being a JA Dragon’s Lair Finalist, set the stage for Maysee’s impactful JA journey. In her second year, the team created Arbor’s Art, overcoming challenges and earning Maysee the Top 20 Under 40 Junior Achiever award.
Advice to Students
Maysee encourages students to seize opportunities and take advantage of what comes their way. Drawing from her own experiences, including hosting a show on Rogers TV, creating a short film with a professional production company, and helping build two companies through JA, she emphasizes the importance of going for opportunities, even if they seem daunting. Maysee’s advice underscores the potential for personal growth and unique experiences that come from embracing opportunities.
Her Impact
Maysee attributes her public speaking skills, business acumen, and leadership qualities to her JA experience. The skills learned during the Company Program have played a crucial role in her success. Currently serving as a Community Relations Associate at the Children’s Health Foundation and a professor at Fanshawe College, teaching podcasting, Maysee also co-founded the Power in Heels Podcast in 2019. The podcast, featuring powerful women sharing their journeys, continues to thrive, showcasing the lasting impact of Maysee’s JA experience on her entrepreneurial endeavours.
Theresa Kelly
JA Company Program 2017-2019
About Theresa
Theresa Kelly participated in the Junior Achievement (JA) Company Program from 2017 to 2019 in St. Thomas (London & District). Over the three years, Theresa and her teams created three distinct products, each with a social impact component. The products included Makes Scents, all-natural air fresheners, Strength in Strings, lava bead bracelets with an elephant charm, and S.O.C.S (Social Offerings, Cool Socks) tie-dye socks. Theresa’s memorable experience with Strength in Strings led to being named Company of the Year for London and District, and Theresa herself earned the President of the Year award. She represented her company at the national level, competing in Calgary for the title of National Company of the Year.
Her JA Experience
Theresa’s JA journey was marked by three diverse product ventures, each contributing to her personal and professional growth. The success of Strength in Strings, winning Company of the Year locally and representing at the national level, stands out as a highlight. The experience of meeting people from around the world at the Success Summit in Calgary left an indelible mark on Theresa.
Advice to Students
Theresa’s advice to high school students centers on pushing oneself beyond perceived limits. She emphasizes that confidence is built, not born, and encourages students to explore their full potential by stepping out of their comfort zones. Theresa’s own experience with JA and beyond serves as a testament to the transformative power of pushing one’s boundaries.
Her Impact
Theresa attributes her success to JA, particularly in developing networking and professional skills that set her apart in university. Her participation in national competitions like ACE Canada case cracking showcases the practical application of skills gained through JA. Theresa’s story reflects how JA not only shapes entrepreneurial skills but also provides a foundation for success in higher education and the professional world.
Brittany Miller
JA Company Program 2009-2012
About Brittany
Brittany Miller is the owner of Brittany Miller Socials and an entrepreneur with a passion for supporting small businesses in their social media and email marketing endeavors. Her journey into entrepreneurship was significantly influenced by her three-year participation in the Junior Achievement (JA) Company Program in St. Thomas from 2009 to 2012. Brittany holds an Honors Bachelor of Business Administration degree specializing in Human Resources from Wilfrid Laurier University.
Her JA Experience
Brittany’s JA experience was marked by three unique years, each contributing to her personal and professional growth. The first year involved creating customizable greeting cards and teaching Brittany about leadership, inventory management, and quality control. This experience pushed her out of her comfort zone, building confidence and resilience. The second year as the President of Jac and the Bean Bag allowed her to deepen her understanding of leadership and team management. The third year, selling copper bookmarks and handmade paper, showcased her versatility as she took on the roles of VP of HR and VP of Accounting, fostering her interest in HR.
Advice to Students
Brittany’s advice to high school students emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience alongside academic learning. She highlights that practical, real-world experience in trying things out is invaluable, providing better preparation for life and future careers, regardless of the chosen industry.
Her Impact
Brittany’s impact is evident in her journey from JA to becoming a successful entrepreneur. She attributes her love for entrepreneurship and the confidence to start her own business directly to her JA experience. Brittany has not only started and successfully run her current business, Brittany Miller Socials, but also previously launched Brittany & Baby Boutique. She is approaching her second business anniversary. She has expanded her influence through the Go Get Great Podcast, sharing practical tips to blend life and business for personal and professional growth.
Casey Lyall
JA Company Program 1998-2002
About Casey
Casey Lyall, currently a Children’s Book Author, had a significant Junior Achievement (JA) experience from 1998 to 2002 in the Strathroy community. Participating in The Company Program, Casey’s JA group, though small, was competitive and earned the prestigious title of Company of the Year at least once. Their standout product was a reheatable wheat bag, showcasing creativity and practicality.
Her JA Experience
Casey’s memories of JA include a small but competitive group, emphasizing teamwork, competitiveness, and camaraderie. The rural setting of Strathroy created a unique bonding experience for the team. The reheatable wheat bag not only demonstrated their entrepreneurial spirit but also provided a practical and popular product. Casey highlights the fun and teamwork as the most enjoyable aspects of her JA experience.
Advice to Students
Casey’s advice to high school students centers on being open to change and taking chances. She encourages students to recognize that it’s okay to change their paths and forge new ones, emphasizing the flexibility to evolve and adapt. Casey’s own experiences of changing directions in life serve as a testament to the value of being open-minded and willing to take risks.
Her Impact
Casey attributes her confidence boost to JA, highlighting its role in breaking her out of her shyness. The program taught her the importance of creativity and outside-the-box thinking, emphasizing the correlation between creativity, perseverance, and goal accomplishment. As a Children’s Book Author, Casey’s success can be traced back to the skills and confidence gained during her JA years.
Dana Parsons
JA Company Program 1986-1989
About Dana
Dana Parsons is the CEO and a partner in Wright Rehab, a provincial-wide company supporting clients with acquired and/or spinal cord injuries. Her journey in business and entrepreneurship traces back to her participation in the Junior Achievement (JA) program in London from 1986 to 1989. Dana studied accounting at Lambton College, worked in finance for 15 years, and eventually transitioned to her current leadership role at Wright Rehab.
Her JA Experience
Enthusiastically joining JA during a presentation in her grade 11 accounting class, Dana’s three-year experience in the Company Program was transformative. She not only gained valuable business skills but also developed leadership, communication, and technical abilities. The products her JA team created – a book holder, cotton roll-up organizer, and a memo cork board – reflect the practical, hands-on nature of the program. Dana’s retention of the memo board highlights the lasting impact of her JA journey.
Advice to Students
Dana’s advice to current high school students centers on financial literacy. She emphasizes the importance of taking the initiative to learn about finances from various sources, including parents, friends, and business professionals. This advice reflects the practical knowledge Dana gained through JA and suggests a proactive approach to personal and financial education.
Her Impact
Dana attributes her success to the safe space JA provided for her to learn, try, and make mistakes in business. The three years spent in the JA program were formative, rewarding her with provincial and national conferences, as well as a Dale Carnegie scholarship. Dana’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her role at Wright Rehab, where she supports over 40 contractors in creating their own practices in the rehabilitation field. Her commitment to a heart-centered practice and achieving clinical standards showcases the enduring influence of JA in shaping her business philosophy.
Dana’s story underscores the profound and lasting impact that JA can have on individuals, not only equipping them with practical skills but also instilling a mindset of continuous learning and entrepreneurship.
Keith Doan
JA Company Program 1982-1986
About Keith
Keith Doan is an accomplished individual with a rich history in Junior Achievement (JA). He was part of the JA program in Windsor from 1982 to 1986, participating in JA Companies and Summer Enterprises. Keith has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, having created multiple products during his JA experience. His involvement with JA extended beyond his student years, as he served on the JA Dallas Board from 2008 to mid-2023. Currently, Keith holds the position of President and CEO of KRD Risk Management Consulting & Insurance Group LLC.
His JA Experience
Keith’s JA journey involved the manufacturing of four products: a spaghetti measurer, a panda bear shelf, a telephone book cover, and a back scratcher. His active participation in JA extended to attending two EPJACS and one CANJAC. Notably, he achieved recognition in the JA Celanese 1986 public speaking and essay contest for Ontario, securing the 2nd position. Keith’s connection with JA continued over the years, seeking advice from the late Paul Almond, which significantly influenced his career choices. Winning the JA Bursary in 1986 and several other awards underscored the impact JA had on Keith’s early career.
Advice to Students
Keith’s advice to high school students emphasizes passion, skill diversification, and gratitude for each day. Encouraging students to be passionate and skilled in multiple disciplines aligns with their own journey in JA and beyond. This advice reflects a holistic approach to personal and professional development.
His Impact
Keith attribute all of his success to his JA experience, highlighting its pivotal role in shaping his career path. His involvment with JA Dallas, both as a former participant and a board member, showcases a commitment to giving back and contributing to the program’s growth. The JA Dallas YouTube video from 2016 likely provides further insights into Keith’s journey and the profound impact of JA on his life.
Keith’s story serves as an inspiring example of the long-lasting influence of JA experiences on individuals, demonstrating how early exposure to entrepreneurship and business principles can shape a successful and fulfilling career.
Laura Gurr
JA Company Program 1998-2002
About Laura
Laura is an accomplished individual with a strong background in law, holding the position of Managing Partner at Cohen Highley LLP. She pursued her education at Queen’s University, obtaining a BA (Hons) and J.D. This solid academic foundation likely contributed to her success. Now, let’s delve into her Junior Achievement (JA) experience.
Her JA Experience
Laura’s participation in the JA Company Program between 1998-2002 in Strathroy left a lasting impact on her. She gained practical exposure to marketing, human resources, and business development, laying the groundwork for her future career. The lessons of maximizing resources, valuing individuals, and adapting plans to real-world conditions have stayed with her. Her company’s success and acknowledgment, potentially winning Company of the Year, showcase the practical application of JA principles.
The highlight of Laura’s JA journey was her attendance at the Canadian National Junior Achievement Conference in Calgary in 2001. This experience, combined with her commitment to the program, likely played a crucial role in shaping her perspectives on business and leadership.
Advice to Students
Laura’s advice to high school students is valuable and echoes the essence of JA’s mission. She emphasizes the importance of involvement, curiosity, and seizing opportunities. Her own experiences demonstrate that saying yes to chances, being genuinely curious, and learning from both successes and failures can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths.
Her Impact
Laura attributes her success to her early exposure to business concepts and their practical application in JA. The principles she learned continue to be relevant in her role as a Managing Partner. Highlighting the long-term impact JA can have on individuals, providing them with a head start in their careers. Laura’s story is a testament to the enduring influence of JA’s experiences on professional development and success.
Ryanna Luo
JA Company Program 2018-2022
About Ryanna
Ryanna embarked on her Junior Achievement (JA) journey in her first year of high school, influenced by her family members’ participation in the program, particularly her sister and cousin. She recounted her early experiences with JA, watching her family prototype products and overcome entrepreneurial challenges, which ignited her curiosity.
Her JA Experience
Over four years at JA, Ryanna was deeply involved in various aspects of the program, including holding senior positions in the JA companies she formed, such as VP of Marketing and President. Her journey was marked by unique challenges and successes, with her third year being conducted entirely virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, she adapted to the new circumstances, emphasizing leadership with compassion and a focus on her team’s well-being. In her final year, she shifted her focus from numbers to people. She achieved remarkable success in terms of competition results and team relationships. Throughout her JA experience, she learned essential skills like innovation, communication, and motivation, with a strong belief in the importance of caring for one’s team.
Advice to Students
Ryanna’s advice to students based on her JA experience centers on the idea that true leadership is about genuinely caring for and wanting the best for one’s team. She stressed the value of people as a company’s greatest asset. Her approach, which emphasized building strong relationships and prioritizing her team’s well-being, proved more valuable than sales or competition success.
Her Impact
Ryanna’s impact through her JA journey is evident in her accomplishments, including winning first place at the Dragons Lair pitch competition, receiving the President of the Year award, and forming lasting relationships and memories. She shared her insights at the London and District Business Hall of Fame Gala, where she emphasized the invaluable lessons she gained at JA. Her experience continues to influence her academic and career pursuits, as she is studying computer science with aspirations to complete a double degree at the Ivey Business School. The lessons she learned in leadership and the importance of people as assets will remain with her throughout her life.
Sheila Ficca
JA Company Program 1983-1984
About Sheila
Sheila Ficca, a former participant in the Junior Achievement (JA) program, was involved in JA in Windsor, Ontario, during the years 1983-84. She pursued her post-secondary education at Fanshawe College, initially enrolling in Advertising Art but later switching to the Executive Administrative Assistant program. Sheila currently holds the position of HR Manager.
Her JA Experience
Sheila’s Junior Achievement experience did not involve a specific program. Still, she learned a lot about business, gained confidence, and found the motivation to pave her own path. Although she didn’t become an entrepreneur, she attributes her success to the knowledge and skills she acquired during her JA participation.
Advice to Students
Sheila’s advice to high school students is to embrace mistakes as valuable learning experiences. She encourages students to step out of their comfort zones, emphasizing that the more uncomfortable it feels, the more they learn about themselves. Sheila also advises students not to be afraid of taking risks, as the pace of their success often depends on their willingness to accept risks.
Brad Geddes
JA Company Program 1972-1976
About Brad
Brad, the President & CEO of ZucoraHome, has a long-standing involvement with Junior Achievement (JA) London and District, now JA South Western Ontario (JASWO), spanning more than a decade. He served in various roles on the Board of Directors, including Chair and Past Chair. He was honored as a Director Emeritus, a special category recognizing his significant contributions to the organization.
His JA Experience
Brad’s initial connection with JA dates back to 1972-1976 when he was a student in the Company Program in Brantford, Ontario. His JA experience ignited his entrepreneurial spirit, leading him to establish multiple businesses in technology, systems integration, publishing, and insurance despite not having a formal post-secondary education.
Advice to Students
Aspiring high school entrepreneurs should study finance and law as a foundational base for business success and to develop a voracious reading habit, which has proven to be invaluable for him achieving success.
His Impact
Brad has provided invaluable leadership, ensuring financial sustainability and offering guidance to the charter. Brad’s mentorship extended to JA London and the District’s previous and current Presidents & CEOs, Bev Robinson and Karen Gallant, and he has been a member of the JA Worldwide Global Council since 2017. He remains passionate about JA’s role in inspiring students. He is leading a special project to help JA students become global citizens, emphasizing the lasting impact JA has both locally and globally.
Brad Geddes
If you have a desire to be an entrepreneur, study finance and law as a foundation for business success. Most important, become a voracious reader!
