June 2026 OneJA Newsletter

LETTER FROM THE CEO

Dear colleagues,

If you read the headlines, it can feel as though the future of work is being reinvented every week. New AI tools emerge almost daily. Predictions about which jobs will change, disappear, or be created shift with every new technological breakthrough. Yet amidst all this uncertainty, one question remains constant for us at JA Worldwide: How do we prepare young people not only to navigate change, but to thrive because of it . . .

Read the rest of Asheesh's letter.

STAFF ACTION ITEMS

CATCH THE LX COMMUNITY FLASH TALK AND EXPLORE THE LX HUB

The LX, Tech & Innovation community held a flash talk to share AI-enhanced learning experiences happening across the network. There are two great ways to learn what others have created and get inspired:

Explore the LX Hub. Discover AI-enhanced learning experiences shared from across the network.
Hear directly from the Global AI Ambassadors as they share the AI-enhanced LXs they’ve created in the flash talk recording on OneJA.

SHOWCASE THE POWER OF JA STORIES

In May, JA Worldwide piloted the "Because of JA" campaign, inviting alumni, volunteers, educators, staff, and supporters from around the world to share the impact JA has had on their lives. The response demonstrated the power of personal storytelling, with participants contributing meaningful stories that highlighted the lasting influence of JA experiences across regions and generations.

Building on that momentum, Because of JA will become an ongoing storytelling initiative tied to United Nations observances throughout the year. The next opportunity began this month in recognition of Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Day on June 27. During this week leading up to MSME Day, we've been sharing and collecting stories from JA and INJAZ alumni who have launched and grown their own businesses. Visit OneJA to access campaign collateral, participation details, and resources to help amplify these stories across the network. (Remember that these resources are shared two weeks before these celebrations. Check out OneJA for more details.)

ELEVATE THOUGHT LEADERSHIP WITH A NEW STAKEHOLDER-ENGAGEMENT RESOURCE

Whether you're preparing for a media interview, speaking on a panel, engaging with your board, or discussing education and workforce trends with partners, the new JA Thought Leadership Companion is designed to help you communicate with clarity, credibility, and confidence. The companion serves as a shared reference that reflects JA’s perspective on the issues shaping young people’s lives, drawing on nearly a century of experience and insights from across the global network.

The companion offers context, framing, and guidance on 17 timely topics to help you navigate conversations on topics. It is designed to support alignment across the network while leaving room for local context, personal expertise, and regional examples.

Explore the companion on a new section of OneJA called "Stakeholder Engagement," which has been elevated during this current strategic-planning cycle as a global strategic enabler.

EARN THE GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED LEARNING EXPERIENCE SEAL

The Globally Recognized Learning Experience initiative is designed to elevate and strengthen learning experiences from across the JA network. Members and Regional Operating Centers (ROCs) are encouraged to submit learning experiences (LX) for review, not only to showcase your best work but also to contribute to a growing collection of learning experiences that can inspire and support your colleagues around the world.

You can submit your learning experience(s) once a year in September. The process includes completing a self-assessment rubric, sharing LX content, and then having the JA Worldwide Education Team review using the same rubric. Learning experiences that meet the established criteria will receive the JA Worldwide Globally Recognized Learning Experience Seal.

Starting September 1 (and closing September 30), the application process will live on OneJA. If you have additional questions now or then reach out to Alison Gottsch-Walton.

REVIEW THE TOP 10 GLOBAL SCHOOLS PRIZE FINALIST LIST: DID A JA SCHOOL MAKE THE LIST?

The Global Schools Prize has announced its Top 10 finalists and category winners, recognizing schools around the world that are reimagining education through innovation, leadership, and measurable impact. As you review the finalists, look closely for schools connected to your JA programs, partnerships, or alumni communities. If one of your JA schools has been recognized among the Top 10, please share the news with Lorrie Noggle, and we'll amplify their achievement across the global network.

CONNECT YOUR INTERNS TO THE GLOBAL JA NETWORK

Is your JA office hosting interns in June and July? Encourage them to join JA Interns Connect, a global virtual experience that brings together young people working at JA locations around the world. The series offers five interactive virtual sessions that give them the chance to connect across cultures, exchange ideas, grow their professional networks, and gain new perspectives beyond their day-to-day internship experience. More than an added learning opportunity, JA Interns Connect helps this cohort become part of a broader global community of young people shaping the future through JA. Participants become part of the JA alumni ecosystem, creating connections and opportunities that continue long after their internships end. Sign up your interns today.

BUILDING BETTER BOARDS FOR A BIGGER FUTURE

JA Worldwide has set an ambitious goal: to deliver 100 million youth learning experiences annually by 2050. Reaching that goal will require exceptional governance as much as it will exceptional LX, technology, fundraising, and brand value.

That's why we're launching JA Board Orientation, a customizable app-based learning experience designed to help board members better understand JA, strengthen governance practices, and connect more quickly to the resources, opportunities, and networks available across OneJA.

For local staff, JA Board Orientation provides a shared foundation that reduces the need to cover basic organizational information and helps board members become effective contributors faster. It also helps board members see themselves as part of a global movement, creating new opportunities for shared learning and collaboration. Read more.

JOIN THE NEXT JA GLOBAL ORIENTATION

Are you a staff member with less than two years at JA? Do you want to learn more about JA across the globe and share feedback along the way? Join the JA Global Orientation (JA GO) cohort. You'll discover more about our strategy to deliver 100 million learning experiences per year by 2050, our top youth learning experiences, and innovations around the globe. You'll also develop a global network of new colleagues and deepen your leadership skills.

The next JA GO will start September 15, taking place every Tuesday and Thursday at 9amEST/3pmCEST/9pmHKT. The cohort is open to 50 JA staff and will have synchronous and asynchronous sessions, all on Zoom. Each JA staffer who completes the requirements will receive a credential and badge for LinkedIn, plus a few surprises. Sign up on OneJA.

EXPLORE FUNDRAISING IN THE NETWORK AT THE NEXT GLOBAL TOWN HALL

Fundraising approaches vary across the JA network, but many locations are working to address similar challenges and pursue similar opportunities. Whether you're exploring new funding opportunities, strengthening existing partnerships, or looking to learn from colleagues across the network, you'll learn from your global colleagues at the next JA Global Town Hall. Join us September 30 at 9amEDT/2pmCEST/9pmHKT to exchange ideas, ask questions, and hear what's working in different JA locations. If this is your first Global Town Hall, sign up on OneJA to receive the calendar invitation and Zoom link. Previous attendees will automatically receive an invitation from contact@jaworldwide.org and do not need to register again.

SAVE THE DATE: GLC VIRTUAL 2027 IS COMING

Mark your calendar for the next GLC Virtual, April 19–23, 2027. This biennial global gathering brings together JA staff, volunteers, educators, alumni, and partners from around the world to learn, connect, and explore the ideas shaping the future of our network and the young people we serve. Download the calendar invitation available on OneJA and save the date today.

NEED A WEBSITE?

If your website feels a little out of date, needs a fresher look, or still features the old JA branding, we have a great option for you: a Squarespace website that’s already branded and organized, ready for you to customize at your convenience.

Squarespace websites are inexpensive and offer a content-management system that's easy to learn. But the branding, menu structure, and layout can be time-consuming, so we've handled that part for you.

After attending a training session, your JA location will receive access to a branded Squarespace website that your team can customize with your own content, photos, and materials at your own pace, without needing technical expertise. Once the site is ready, JA Worldwide will help proofread, launch, and redirect the existing URL, while covering the first year of hosting costs. Learn more and add a training session to your calendar on OneJA.

GLOBAL NEWS

FUTURE BOUND 2026 LANDS IN BOSTON

Earlier this month, students from across the US gathered in Boston for Junior Achievement USA's annual celebration of youth entrepreneurship, financial capability, and work readiness. In addition to four national competitions—JA Company of the Year, JA Social Innovation Challenge, JA Titan Challenge, and JA Stock Market Challenge—students participated in workplace visits, networking opportunities, and skill-building workshops. From cybersecurity escape games and AI-powered productivity tools to solutions that reduce food waste and support mental wellness, Future Bound 2026 showcased the impact of young people turning ideas into action. Explore the student companies, innovative ideas, and winning teams, and learn more about Future Bound 2026.

INTRODUCING THE 2026 GLOBAL AI AMBASSADORS

As AI continues to reshape how people learn, work, and build businesses, educators and innovators across the JA network are exploring how these technologies can strengthen entrepreneurship, employability, and experiential learning for young people.

The 2026 cohort of JA Global AI Ambassadors hail from across the Americas, Europe, and the broader global JA network. Read more.

WATCH THE RECORDING OF A WORLD BANK PANEL DISCUSSION WITH JA LEADERS

On-the-job learning and early exposure to the labor market are widely considered essential stepping stones for developing skills and improving employability. Yet internships and apprenticeships often reach only a small minority of young people, particularly in countries where the formal private sector is limited. During this thought-leadership session, participants explored alternative models of work-integrated learning that have the potential to reach young people at scale, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

Missed the webinar or want to revisit the discussion? The recording is now available to watch on demand.

JA WORLDWIDE AND IBM ANNOUNCE EXPANSION OF PARTNERSHIP

JA Worldwide and IBM announced the expansion of our global collaboration through IBM SkillsBuild, IBM’s education program aimed at increasing access to technology education. Together, we've set a goal to deliver practical digital learning experiences to help one million high-school student learners build AI and technology skills needed for the future of work.

“Through JA Worldwide, we are helping students around the world build the technical and professional skills they need to participate confidently and responsibly in an AI-driven workforce,” said Lydia Logan, Vice President, Global Education and Workforce Development, IBM. Read more.

JA WORLDWIDE ANNOUNCES THIRD LEAD COHORT

JA Worldwide is pleased to announce the selection of six outstanding leaders for the third cohort of the Leader Exchange and Development (LEAD) Program for JA member CEOs and Executive Directors. Chosen from an exceptionally strong and highly competitive applicant pool, these leaders represent some of the very best of the global JA network and will participate in a year-long leadership experience designed to foster learning, collaboration, and global connection. Meet the latest cohort:

Africa: Edem Amesu-Addor, JA Ghana
Americas: Deborah Revilla, JA Peru
Asia Pacific: Hau Yee Ng, JA Singapore
Europe: Tove Jarl, Ung Företagsamhet (JA Sweden)
MENA: Yasmine Wilson, INJAZ Egypt
USA: Betty Garger, Junior Achievement of New York

The selection process was particularly challenging this year due to the number and quality of applications received from across the JA network. Every applicant demonstrated impressive leadership potential and a commitment to advancing JA’s mission. We congratulate this exceptional group of leaders and look forward to the insights, friendships, and cross-border collaborations that will emerge through their participation in LEAD. Their selection reflects not only their individual accomplishments but also the strength and depth of leadership throughout the OneJA community. Learn more about LEAD.

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LEARNING

A new World Economic Forum report explores one of the biggest questions facing education today: How can AI strengthen learning without replacing the skills that make us human?

The report highlights the importance of personalized learning, responsible implementation, critical thinking, and human connection. These same principles guide JA's AI initiatives, including JA Boost (highlighted in a new article from McKinsey & Company), which helps students access personalized coaching while developing the communication, creativity, leadership, and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in the future of work.

Learn more about JA Boost–Pitch Master and read the full WEF report.

ALUMNI NEWS AND OPPORTUNITIES

WORLD YOUTH FOR ACTION LAUNCHES NOW

Young people are already shaping their communities. World Youth for Action aims to help them shape the systems and policies that affect their future. JA Worldwide's new flagship, multi-year youth advocacy initiative will equip youth ages 16–29 with the skills, networks, and opportunities to become effective advocates and changemakers at the local, national, and global levels.

Applications are now open for the first Youth Advocate Certification Program, a six-week virtual learning experience for 50 participants worldwide. Youth will build advocacy, communication, and leadership skills, earn a credential, gain opportunities to contribute on a global stage, and become eligible to apply for a full-ride scholarship to attend the World Youth for Action Summit in New Delhi, India, this November. Learn more and apply at worldyouthforaction.org.

REGIONAL UPDATES

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT USA

Research by Junior Achievement USA and Basinait Insights conducted in March of 2026 shows that more than 90 percent of education leaders surveyed agree with the statement, “There is a disconnect between what is taught in primary and secondary schools and what it takes for students to succeed economically in the future.” This response potentially reflects a recognition that while schools can provide strong academic foundations, too many students are graduating without the skills, experience, and practical exposure needed to translate learning into long-term economic opportunity. Read the full report.

JA AFRICA

The JA Africa Annual Impact Report is now available, and it tells the story of a bold strategy coming full circle. Four years ago, JA Africa delivered 131,260 learning experiences per year. For 2025, that number reached 1,637,137, a twelvefold increase across 23 countries, and proof of what consistent investment in young people can build over time. Across the continent, young people are gaining the entrepreneurship education, work readiness, and financial capabilities to shape their own futures and lift their communities with them. Read the JA Africa Annual Impact Report.

In addition, JA Zambia has won the Tech for Women Initiative Award at the Tech Trends Zambia Awards 2025, in recognition of the inaugural Girls Lead Camp, in partnership with corporate partner Stanbic Bank Zambia. This recognition affirms the impact of the JA mission across Africa and highlights the strength of local partnerships in advancing that mission. See more.

Finally, JA Africa and the Prudence Foundation have launched the 2026 Cha-Ching Curriculum Implementation Program, the most expansive cycle of a partnership that began in 2016. Running through March 2027, the program will equip 275,000 primary school children across Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, and Zambia with lifelong financial skills. Through animated storytelling and interactive lessons, Cha-Ching teaches children four core money concepts: earn, save, spend, and donate. This cycle also deepens government engagement, with the second edition of the National Financial Literacy Forum convening ministries, central banks, and curriculum authorities to advocate for financial literacy in every child's education. The program will close with nationwide Money Bee competitions that turn financial learning into a celebrated public event. Read more.

JA AMERICAS

NAUFest, the largest educational experience of Junior Achievement Americas, returns in 2026 with a new edition that will connect young people across the region through learning, inspiration, and action around entrepreneurship, the future of work, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and personal purpose.

Running from July to October, the program will combine 30 in-person events in 20 cities plus virtual experiences designed to help young people explore opportunities, develop skills, and connect with the world of work. The 2026 edition is expected to reach more than 25,000 participants and generate over 3 million educational experiences across 23 countries.

This year’s campaign, “Focus on Your Potential,” invites young people to discover their strengths, explore new possibilities, and build their own path forward. Alongside the regional events, participants will be able to join the AI-focused Challenge and Matching Talent, a virtual employability experience featuring corporate leaders, masterclasses, and mentoring opportunities. The official launch will take place in late June.

JA ASIA PACIFIC

JA Asia Pacific advanced its “Partner for Impact” priority, deepening cross-sector collaboration and elevating youth voices across the region. At the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) Youth Forum hosted by the World Bank Group in Bangkok, JA Asia Pacific, together with JA Thailand, led a high-impact half-day hybrid session while creating a platform for JA alumni to represent the perspectives of young people across the region. This reinforced JA’s role as an influential ecosystem co-convener on youth-focused issues.

The momentum continued with the formalization of a new partnership with the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO). The collaboration marks a strategic step toward institutionalizing JA programs by aligning with a key intergovernmental body at the core of regional education policy, supported by a network of SEAMEO specialized centers across Southeast Asia and JA members in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. The milestone was celebrated at a British Chamber of Commerce networking dinner, where JA Asia Pacific and JA Thailand recognized longstanding partners.

Finally, senior JA Asia Pacific leaders recently represented JA across key global platforms, including The AI Summit Singapore (ATxSG 2026), the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Dialogue on Open Innovation Ecosystems in Beijing, and the Asia Dialogue Forum in Mumbai, which explored “Rewriting the Rules of Attention in an AI-First Era.” Together, these efforts strengthen JA’s position as a leading voice on the future of work and youth readiness, and as a partner of choice in delivering scalable, system-level impact across Asia Pacific.

INJAZ AL-ARAB/JA MENA

INJAZ Al-Arab, in collaboration with INJAZ Al-Maghrib (JA Morocco) and with the support of Starbucks, UNHCR Morocco, AMAPPE, and ANAPEC, delivered JA Innovation Camp in Casablanca, bringing together 42 sub-Saharan refugees for a hands-on entrepreneurship experience. Hosted as part of the EmpowerME initiative, the workshop encouraged participants to develop innovative business ideas that address community needs and promote social well-being.

Supported by Starbucks Morocco volunteers, participants worked in teams to transform ideas into practical solutions while building their entrepreneurial and leadership skills. This first Starbucks Innovation Camp for refugees in Morocco reflects the shared commitment of all partners to empowering underserved communities through entrepreneurship, fostering resilience, self-reliance, and positive social impact.

JA EUROPE

JA colleagues, partners, and friends from around the world are invited to join online GEN-E 2026, Europe’s largest youth entrepreneurship festival, hosted this year in Riga, Latvia. Whether you're supporting students, educators, alumni, or partners in your local community, join us online and experience the energy, creativity, and entrepreneurial talent of Europe’s next generation. On July 9 (9:00–16:00 EEST), tune in to the Opening Ceremony and stage presentations, showcasing Europe’s top student entrepreneurs. On July 9 (19:00–23:30 EEST), GEN-E concludes with the live-streamed Gala Awards Dinner, celebrating the achievements of this year’s young innovators. Both livestreams will be available on the GEN-E website at gen-e.eu, where you can also find the full program and event details. (And remember to use #GEN_E for any posts related to the event!)

In addition, Europe has announced the winners of the Entrepreneurial School Awards (TES) 2026, celebrating ten schools from across Europe that are leading the way in entrepreneurship education. Supported by FedEx, the awards recognize schools that successfully embed innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial learning throughout the student experience. The schools will be recognized during GEN-E 2026 in Riga, Latvia. Read more.

The GA4Y & JA Europe Mentoring Programme has successfully concluded, connecting young professionals with senior leaders from leading companies to support their personal and professional growth. Participants highlighted the value of meaningful connections, real-world learning, and increased confidence as they prepared for the future of work.

Elenya Spiteri, founder of Medilert (Malta), has won the AmCham EU Youth Entrepreneurship Award 2026, organized by AmCham EU in collaboration with JA Europe. Medilert combines an automated dispenser, app-based monitoring, and voice reminders to support safe medication use for older adults and promote healthy aging. The award highlights the impact of young female entrepreneurs emerging from JA learning experiences and their role in developing innovative solutions to real-world challenges. Read more.

MILESTONES

AWARDS

Al-Razi University honored INJAZ Yemen for helping more than 5,000 students develop entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and career readiness skills between 2022 and 2026 (read more).