Register for GLC Rio

For the first time ever, we’re bringing together four powerful events in one unforgettable experience—right in the heart of vibrant Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

One Week. Four Events. Limitless Impact.

This year’s Global Leadership Conference (GLC) is more than just a gathering—it's a celebration of our mission, our community, and the real-world impact we create together.

Join us for this historic convergence of . . .

  • November 18–22: JA Worldwide Global Leadership Conference Rio
    Bringing the leadership of JA together, 300 participants, all around the world. Register below

  • November 17–20: JA Americas Company of the Year Competition
    Celebrating the most innovative student-led companies from across the Americas, showcasing the entrepreneurial potential of young people in action. Registration will open in July. For more details, please contact info@jaamericas.org.

  • November 18 and 19: JA Americas Regional Board Meeting
    A strategic convening of regional leadership to reflect, align, and chart the course forward. For more details, please contact info@jaamericas.org.

  • November 20: JA Worldwide Board of Governors Meeting
    A rare global gathering of our highest leadership to connect, collaborate, and strengthen our worldwide movement. For more details, please contact Tamara Silva.

GLC Registration Fee

All included from November 18–22, excluding airfare, transport from the airport to the hotel and back, and one dinner.

  • US$680 for a single room

  • US$550 (per person) for a shared room

Note: JA Worldwide does not provide scholarships for GLC Rio. We’ve kept the cost of the event as low as possible to ensure as much participation and attendance as possible. JA Worldwide heavily subsidizes in-person GLC to ensure as many JA member location staff can attend as possible. This is an important gathering of our global leadership, and we can’t wait to see you there!

You can register in one of three ways: As an individual, on behalf of others (whether you’re also registering yourself or not), or as part of a JA regional operating center (ROC). Click on the icon that applies to your situation, and let’s get you registered!

GLC Awards 2025

Applications and nominations for 2025 GLC Awards are now open. Read about the Jonas Prising Award for Leadership and Lifetime Achievement, the Soraya Salti Award, the JA Bold Tech Award, JA Access Award, the JA Youth Advocacy and Alumni Impact Award, the JA Activator Award, the JA Growth and Impact Award, and the JA Brand Amplification Award and nominate yourself, a colleague, or your JA location.

GLC Virtual 2025

Revisit the insights and resources from GLC Virtual, including every session recording and claim your GLC badges.

FAQs

General Information

  • GLC is an annual gathering of JA’s global and regional leadership, staff, and partners. In 2025, GLC will be hosted in Rio de Janeiro. This time it’s not only the GLC but also includes four three major events in one location for the first time: the Company of the Year (COY) Competition for JA Americas, the JA Americas Regional Board Meeting, the JA Worldwide Board of Governors Meeting, and broader staff engagement. Please note that space at GLC is  we have limited spots and registration is on it’s a first-come, first-served basis.

    • GLC Rio: November 18–22, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
      Arrival day: November 18 (all day). GLC starts with a welcome dinner that evening.
      Departure day: November 22 (all day, no program)

    Concurrent events:

    • JA Americas Company of the Year Competition: November 17–20

    • JA Americas Regional Board Meeting JA Americas: November 18 and 19

    • JA Worldwide Board of Governors: November 20

  • GLC is designed for JA staff from around the world. Typically, each JA organization sends its CEO and/or leadership team; however, the conference is open to all staff members with approval from their respective country or regional manager. Board members are not eligible to attend GLC, as board-specific meetings are hosted separately.

  • We expect approximately 300–350 participants at GLC Rio.

Event Schedule and Program

  • GLC Rio will feature:

    • JA Global Leadership Conference (GLC): November 18–22

    • JA Americas Company of the Year Competition (COY): November 17–20

    • JA Americas Regional Board meeting: November 18 and 19 

    • JA Worldwide Board of Governors meeting: November 20

    Detailed agendas to follow closer to event dates.

  • Some sessions will run in parallel, with targeted programming for the different audiences. The full GLC schedule will be shared ahead of time to allow for planning. GLC attendees, board members, and JA Americas COY participants can all attend the JA Americas COY Awards Ceremony, bringing the full JA community together to celebrate student innovation and achievement.

  • You can only register for one event. There will be overlapping sessions, and your agenda will reflect the programming relevant to your selected registration. Please choose your registration based on your role in the organization and coordinate with your supervisor to ensure the appropriate selection. Interaction with students at the booths.

  • No, but every session of GLC Virtual is available online!

Registration and Pricing

  • Registration includes participation in all assigned conference sessions, materials, local transportation during the event, select meals, and organized activities.

    • $680 USD for a single room

    • $550 USD (per person) for a shared room

  • The registration deadline is September 17, 2025, but attendee slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. When the conference is full, it is full.

  • No, registration is for the full duration of the event. This ensures full participation in collaborative programming.

Travel and Accommodation

  • The main venue and recommended hotel is Hotel Nacional Rio de Janeiro.

    Address: Av. Niemeyer, 769 - São Conrado, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22450-221, Brazil

  • We will provide a special link to book additional nights.

  • No, we suggest that you organize transportation ahead of time or take an Uber when you arrive.

  • Visa requirements vary by country. We recommend checking with your local consulate as early as possible. JA will provide letters of invitation upon request.

    Please send an email with your passport number, your full name, date of birth, arrival and departure date to contact@jaworldwide.org.

Health and Safety

  • While not required, we highly recommend travel insurance to cover medical needs, cancellations, or emergencies. Worldwide does not cover travel insurance for participants. 

  • Some vaccinations may be recommended depending on your country of origin. Please consult with a travel health provider for up-to-date guidance.

  • All participants for GLC, COY, and both Board Meetings will be accommodated in the same hotel with additional security measures in place. Transportation to and from official venues will include coordinated security support. 

    Like any major city, Rio de Janeiro has areas where visitors should take extra caution. While the city offers breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow recommended safety guidelines. 

    General Safety Recommendations

    • Use Uber or other trusted ride-share apps instead of hailing taxis on the street.

    • Avoid walking outside alone at night; always take a car service.

    • Carry only essential belongings and avoid displaying money or valuables, including mobile phones, in public.

    • Avoid nighttime walks along the beach, even in popular areas.

    • If planning a tour or excursion, use guides or services recommended by your hotel or the event organizers.

Payments and Refunds

  • Refunds for GLC are available for any reason.

  • We only accept major credit cards through the oneja.org website

On-the-Ground Logistics

  • Yes, local transportation will be provided for official sessions and organized group activities.

  • Smart casual for general sessions; business attire for formal meetings and ceremonies. Further guidance will be included in pre-arrival information.

  • No, translation and interpretation devices and services will not be provided at GLC Rio.

Contact and Support

  • A dedicated support team will be available before and during the event. Please message us at glc@jaworldwide.org.