February 2026 OneJA Newsletter

LETTER FROM THE CEO

Dear colleagues,

For the fifth time, JA Worldwide has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. This nomination reflects a growing recognition that peace is built not only through diplomacy, but also through systems that expand agency and opportunity at scale . . .

Read the rest of Asheesh's letter.

STAFF ACTION ITEMS

UPDATE YOUR CALENDAR: JA GLOBAL TOWN HALL MOVES TO MARCH 31

To avoid conflicts with several global holidays, the JA Global Town Hall will now take place on March 31, 2026, at 9amEDT/2pmCET/9pmHKT. If you previously registered for a JA Global Town Hall, you do not need to register again. An updated calendar invitation was sent on February 11 from contact@jaworldwide.org. If you have not yet registered or attended a previous town hall, please sign up for the March session on OneJA.

STEP INTO THE GLOBAL JA NETWORK: JA GO BEGINS APRIL 9

If you’ve joined JA within the past two years and want to see the full power of our global network in action, JA Global Orientation is your next step. The new cohort launches April 9 and runs through May 5, meeting Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9amEDT/3pmCEST/9pmHKT. Limited to 50 staff members, this dynamic experience blends live Zoom sessions with flexible, asynchronous learning to keep energy high and ideas flowing.

JA GO goes beyond an introduction. You’ll explore our bold strategy to deliver 100 million learning experiences per year by 2050, dive into our flagship youth programs, and discover innovations happening across regions. Just as important, you’ll build a global network of peers, exchange insights, and strengthen your leadership voice within JA.

Complete the program requirements and you’ll earn a credential and LinkedIn badge, plus a few surprises along the way. Ready to connect, contribute, and grow? Sign up on OneJA.

PROMOTE YOUR REGIONAL CHAMPION FOR THE 2026 DE LA VEGA ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD

The 2026 De La Vega Global Entrepreneurship Award is approaching, and now is the time to rally your region and community. An event toolkit is available, complete with social media graphics and ready-to-use assets to help you spotlight your region’s top JA student company and build momentum across your channels.

On March 4 at 9amEST/3pmCET/10pmHKT, six exceptional JA student companies from JA Africa, JA Americas, JA Asia Pacific, JA Europe, INJAZ Al-Arab/JA MENA, and Junior Achievement USA will take the global stage. The De La Vega Global Entrepreneurship Award honors their innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial drive while showcasing the strength of the JA Company Program worldwide. Download the toolkit on OneJA, amplify your regional champion, and help your community show up strong for this global celebration of student entrepreneurship.

NOMINATE LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS FOR A GLOBAL STAGE

When you nominate an inspiring leader from your JA location for the Global Business Hall of Fame—which honors the world’s most accomplished entrepreneurs and business leaders—you help put your community on the global map.

This year, JA offices qualify for JA FastTrack: an easier path for Global Business Hall of Fame nominations. Just submit three details, and you’re done. It takes five minutes to elevate a local entrepreneur, open doors with influential executives, and pave the way for global recognition of your JA location. 2026 nominations are now open to the network on OneJA.

ACCESS THE 2026 BRAND GUIDELINES

The 2026 update to the JA Brand Guidelines is now available on OneJA. This release introduces new design elements, refreshed templates, updated global messaging and data, and an enhanced “This Is JA” PowerPoint deck to help you build compelling materials faster and more consistently, while encouraging you to push the envelope and keep the JA brand fresh, relevant, and dynamic. (Note that the Brand Guidelines PDF is hot off the presses, so it will take us another week or so to turn all the content from the PDF into web copy, which will then be fully translatable. The PDF has all the information and links you need, but the web version will be about a week behind.

Remember to use the templates and examples as a creative starting point, not a fixed guide. Dive in, pull what you need, and make it your own as you create or refresh materials for the year ahead.

STRENGTHEN YOUR IMPACT MEASUREMENT WITH THE IMPACT INTELLIGENCE TOOLKIT

The Impact Intelligence Toolkit has moved out of draft format and is now available on OneJA. This practical, easy-to-use guide helps JA locations measure what matters and communicate impact with clarity and confidence. From theory of change and research methods to cost analysis, data protection, and storytelling, the toolkit brings everything together in one comprehensive resource.

Some sections invite deeper study, especially the detailed guidance on quantitative research. Others offer ready-to-use templates and tools you can apply right away, whether you’re designing a survey, conducting an alumni study, or strengthening an impact story. Built with input from across the network, the toolkit now stands ready to support stronger evidence, sharper insights, and more compelling storytelling worldwide. Find it on OneJA.

JOIN THE WILD LEADERSHIP FOR SOCIAL IMPACT FORUM

Secure your spot for the 2026 online Leadership for Social Impact Forum, hosted by the WILD Network on May 12–13, 2026. This global event brings together more than 1,000 leaders from 100 countries across 25 time zones to explore the realities of leading in today’s social impact landscape, from navigating AI disruption and funding shifts to scaling programs and developing future leaders. Through interactive workshops, plenaries, and a MentorMatch platform, participants will connect with peers across sectors and career stages while gaining practical insights for intentional leadership. To secure your free ticket, register online and use the code JATEAM at checkout. Spots are limited to 80 for JA staff.

SUBMIT YOUR BEST ADVICE FOR GIRLS IN TIME FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

On March 8, International Women's Day, JA Worldwide will release an updated edition of Shattering Glass: Career Advice for Girls from JA. Originally launched in 2021, the 2026 edition will feature a refreshed cover and advice that speaks directly to girls and young women navigating their education and career paths. Staff, board members, and alumni are invited to contribute, and you do not need to identify as a woman to participate. If you shared advice in a previous edition, you can update your title, location, or quote. Look for the submission form on OneJA.

BRING GLOBAL MONEY WEEK TO LIFE IN YOUR COMMUNITY

We've created a toolkit to help you plan, promote, and activate your local efforts for Global Money Week 2026 (March 16–22). Using the 2026 theme "Smart money talks," the toolkit includes ready-to-use resources and guidance to support strong engagement and consistent messaging across regions. Visit OneJA to download the toolkit and start preparing your activities for Global Money Week 2026.

DRIVE GREATER INDIVIDUAL GIVING

JA Worldwide is excited to share early plans for a new global individual fundraising and awareness campaign and to invite your JA location to help shape it. Taking place over one week (date still to be determined), the campaign will allow your JA location to join a coordinated global effort, driving visibility and individual giving through social media across our own distinct channels, all at the same time.

Save time: JA Worldwide will develop and provide ready-to-use campaign materials, which you can customize with a direct donation link for your JA location.
Maximize local impact: 100% of donations made through your unique link are directed to your organization.
Create efficiency: Each participating location will receive a turnkey campaign toolkit and a unique donation link. Funds raised will be passed directly to JA locations after the campaign closes.
Increase impact: OneJA is bigger than just the staff. It includes educators, volunteers, alumni, board members, partners, supporters, and champions who proudly identify with JA. This campaign invites them to show their OneJA spirit—and support the JA mission together.

Interested? Share your thoughts on OneJA.

SUBMIT YOUR SCHOOL FOR THE WORLD'S BEST SCHOOL PRIZES

Applications for the World’s Best School Prizes 2026 are officially open. This global platform is your chance to share what your school is working on and inspire others to do the same. Whether it’s collaboration with your community, environmental leadership, innovation, supporting student wellbeing, or overcoming adversity, there’s a Prize category that recognizes your impact.

Shine a light on what’s possible in education. Don't wait—the deadline to apply is Friday, March 6. Start your application today.

GLOBAL NEWS

WELCOME THE NEW JA ASIA PACIFIC PRESIDENT AND CEO

JA Worldwide is delighted to share that Vivek Kumar has been appointed the next President and Chief Executive Officer of JA Asia Pacific, bringing a combination of strategic leadership, cross-sector experience, and a deep personal commitment to the power of education. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the region and for JA’s global mission: More than 60 percent of the world’s young people live in this diverse and rapidly transforming part of the world, making the region essential to JA’s mission to equip youth with the skills and confidence to thrive. Learn more about Vivek.

JOIN US FOR THE 2026 DE LA VEGA GLOBAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD PRESENTATION

The De La Vega Global Entrepreneurship Award celebrates the top young entrepreneurs in the world, bringing together each of the winning teams from our six JA regional competitions for a global celebration of innovation, leadership, and impact. Join us on March 4, 2026, at 9amEST/3pmCET/10pmHKT for the virtual awards ceremony and see in real time who will take home the trophy. Watch the livestream from anywhere (and learn about the 2026 finalists) at jaworldwide.org/delavega.

READ DAVOS REFLECTIONS: YOUTH, PARTNERSHIP, AND SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, JA convened important conversations about education, skilling, and technology. From launching Education House with Teach For All and HundrEDorg to lending thought leadership and expertise to panels at Youth House, Wisdom House, House of Trust, Belgium House, and more, the week reflected a shared commitment to preparing young people for the future of work.

Read highlights and reflections from JA leaders, board members, and partners as they shared ideas, deepened partnerships, and explored additional pathways for youth economic opportunity on our blog.

LEARN HOW EDUCATORS ARE CO-CREATING THE FUTURE OF LEARNING

For International Day of Education last month, we wrote on our blog how youth and educators are co-creating the future of learning. When young people help shape how they learn, education becomes more inclusive, more relevant, and more powerful. With the right guidance, AI can strengthen that process by giving students new ways to explore ideas, collaborate, and solve real problems. Across JA learning experiences worldwide, students are using AI to ask better questions, collaborate with purpose, and design solutions rooted in empathy and ethics.

TUNE IN FOR THE RETURN OF JA LIVE

JA Live is back with a new series of conversations featuring the JA Impact Award winners from this season of 2 Minute Drill. Hosted by Sarah Rapp, JA Worldwide’s Director of Youth Advocacy and People, alongside special guest David Meltzer, host of 2 Minute Drill and JA alumnus, each session highlights the entrepreneurial mindset in action, from bold ideas to disciplined execution.

This live series explores how young entrepreneurs developed their concepts, navigated challenges, and built resilience along the way. The series offers practical insight, authentic stories, and a closer look at how innovation and determination translate into real-world impact. Join us every Tuesday at 11:45amEST/5:45pmCET, live on Instagram. Follow @jaworldwide, tune in, and be part of the conversation.

ALUMNI NEWS AND OPPORTUNITIES

JOIN THE FIRST ALUMNI CLUBHOUSE OF 2026

We're kicking off 2026 across the global alumni movement with the first JA Alumni Clubhouse of the year. This JA Alumni Clubhouse will spotlight the newest regional JA alumni boards from Asia Pacific, Africa, and the Americas (including Canada). You'll also hear key global alumni updates, insights, and opportunities shaping the year ahead.

From leadership transitions to new global opportunities, this session brings everything you need to stay connected to what’s happening across our global alumni network. RSVP on Gather.

REGIONAL UPDATES

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT USA

As a leader in experiential learning, JA USA has begun a national expansion of the Junior Achievement Dream Accelerator. Developed by JA Rocky Mountain (Colorado), the Junior Achievement Dream Accelerator is an innovative education solution that engages students in an interactive exploration experience designed to empower them to discover their individual strengths, passions, and interests. Through this experience, students develop a personal plan for their future and build the confidence and self-efficacy to pursue their educational and professional goals with a clear understanding of how their unique talents can create meaningful pathways to success. Outside of the Denver area, JA of Eastern Iowa launched the first Dream Accelerator on February 4. Thanks to a partnership with Delta Air Lines, JA of Georgia and JA North (Minnesota and North Dakota) are launching their sites at the end of February, with more sites to come in 2027. See the Junior Achievement Dream Accelerator in action.

JA AMERICAS

JA Americas also released its 2025 Annual Report, highlighting a year of expanded reach, strengthened partnerships, and measurable impact across the region. The report showcases how JA locations throughout the Americas are equipping young people with the skills and confidence to succeed in work and life. Explore the full report.

In addition, JA Americas and Deloitte are strengthening their commitment to provide financial education in Latin America and the Caribbean, aiming to reach 1 million young people with practical tools for adult life over the next three years. Through the Rock My Wallet program, the initiative will add 500,000 additional learning experiences between 2025 and 2028, thus completing the goal of one million young people trained. The program is aimed at youth ages 13 to 29 and is delivered in virtual and in-person formats across 13 countries: Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

Through real-life situations, participants build a budget and learn key concepts such as saving, credit, and responsible money management, strengthening students' confidence and skills to manage money. “This knowledge benefits both teachers and students. It’s knowledge for their personal, financial, and professional lives,” says Martha Patricia Nemog, a teacher from Colombia.

Similarly, Jessica, a program student, reflects that, “In a family where there isn’t always information about these topics, it’s very valuable for someone to learn, even a little, and share it. This course didn’t just help me; it will also help my family in the future.”

JA ASIA PACIFIC

As momentum builds toward the JA Asia Pacific Company of the Year Competition in Seoul this March, hosted by JA Korea, recent milestones across the region highlight the growing strength and connectivity of the JA network. In January, JA Pakistan held its first Company of the Year Competition, marking an important milestone for one of our newest Members. In February, JA Hong Kong hosted the World of Opportunity Virtual Networking Session, bringing together more than 600 Company Program students from eight markets. Since the session’s launch in 2024, the initiative has connected over 1,100 students across 11 markets, fostering cross-border collaboration, cultural exchange and peer learning that continue to strengthen the regional JA community. Read more.

INJAZ AL-ARAB/JA MENA

INJAZ Al-Arab, in partnership with Starbucks Al Shaya, launched a regional series of innovation camps across the MENA region under the EmpowerME initiative, with a strong focus on reaching underprivileged youth. The EmpowerME initiative is designed to cultivate wellness and sustainability mindsets while enhancing the practical and future-ready skills young people need to thrive. The series launched recently in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, with each activation tailored to its local context, serving students at vocational training centers in Egypt and orphans in Riyadh. Upcoming innovation camps are planned for Bahrain and Lebanon later this quarter, further extending the initiative’s regional impact.

JA EUROPE

As EU leaders convened in Antwerp to strengthen industrial competitiveness and safeguard quality jobs on the continent, JA Europe participated in these high-level discussions as the only youth entrepreneurship and work-readiness organization among more than 600 participants, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker, Stéphane Séjourné, EU Commissioners Teresa Ribera and Wopke Hoekstra, and Matthias Diependaele, Minister-President of Flanders, at the European Industry Summit.

In this context, JA Europe reaffirmed its support for the Antwerp Declaration, joining the community’s call for the upcoming Alden Biesen meeting to become a turning point through bold, coordinated measures that revive industrial competitiveness as early as 2026 — while ensuring that Europe’s industrial future remains inseparably linked to its youth, equipped with the opportunity, skills, and confidence to contribute to a stronger, more sustainable and competitive “Made in Europe.”

As the future of work is redesigned in real time, JA Europe brought a clear message to Davos: the defining question is no longer whether technology will transform work, but whether the next generation is equipped to lead through that transformation.

Throughout the week, JA Europe contributed to high-level dialogues across the Davos ecosystem, including:

"Empowering the Next Generation with Human Skills for Leadership, Work, and Impact" (Wisdom House Davos)
"Society Resilience: How to cooperate to face systemic challenges of the XXI century?" (Leaders Forum Davos)
"Women in Tech Shaping the Future: Leadership, Innovation, and Trust in the Age of AI Transformation" (Davos Innovation Week)
"Next Gen Alliance Roundtable on rethinking education for an AI-driven World" (House of Trust Davos)

Across these platforms, JA Europe reinforced its role as a delivery engine connecting education, business, and policy, advancing initiatives such as EMPASS, EU Code Week, AIENTR4YOUTH, and PulseZ to ensure young people develop not only technical expertise but also the human capabilities needed to turn disruption into opportunity.

JA AFRICA

JA Africa has launched Be Internet Awesome—Africa, a digital literacy and online safety initiative delivered in partnership with Google.org. The program equips children ages 7–12 in Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa with the skills to navigate the internet safely.

Through structured learning experiences, teacher training, and family engagement, the initiative will reach 250,000 youth: 176,000 directly and 74,000 indirectly. In addition, 6,000 teachers and 8,000 parents and caregivers will receive training and resources to support safe digital learning. Broader awareness campaigns will extend online safety knowledge to more than 750,000 people across participating communities. Although implementation is focused on four countries, open-access digital resources are available to educators and families across Africa, expanding the program’s impact beyond national borders. Learn more and access resources.

MILESTONES

AWARDS

Miriam Cresta, CEO of JA Italy, received the Leadership & Advocacy Award at the 35th Elets World Education Summit (WES) Dubai 2026, one of the world’s leading platforms dedicated to shaping the future of education. The award recognizes over 20 years of her commitment to making school education more innovative, enabling, and aligned with the needs of new generations, while strengthening JA Italy's national role. During the Summit, Miriam spoke on the “Education Leadership in the Age of Disruption: Cultivating Future-Ready Schools” panel, bringing the impact of JA programs to the global stage. In another powerful symbol of leadership and lifelong impact, she also served as a Flame Bearer at the Olympic Games alongside a JA Italia alumnus, reflecting the enduring journey of empowerment that entrepreneurship education helps ignite.