May 2025 OneJA Newsletter
LETTER FROM THE CEO
Dear colleagues,
This week, I’m visiting JA Türkiye and writing to you from Istanbul, where the Bosphorus bridges not only continents, but also cultures and ideas. It’s a fitting place to reflect on JA’s impact on the world—especially at a time when geopolitical shifts make JA’s mission more important than ever . . .
Read the rest of Asheesh's letter.
STAFF ACTION ITEMS
REGISTER FOR GLC RIO
Registration for GLC Rio is officially open and, for the first time ever, we’re bringing together four powerful events in one unforgettable experience: The JA Americas Company of the Year competition, JA Americas Regional Board meeting, and JA Worldwide Board of Governors meeting join GLC Rio, right in the heart of vibrant Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Don't delay—spots are limited. Register on OneJA.
Also on OneJA . . .
Claim your GLC badges
Watch (or rewatch) GLC Virtual sessions
Access your GLC Virtual swag bag
You can also watch and share stakeholder session recordings on jaworldwide.org.
SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS AND APPLICATIONS FOR THE GLC 2025 AWARDS
Applications and nominations for 2025 GLC Awards opened last month. Read about the Jonas Prising Award for Leadership and Lifetime Achievement, the Soraya Salti Award, the JA Bold Tech Award, the 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.
New award added: The just-added AI in the JA Workplace Award recognizes JA locations that are leveraging AI to transform the way they work. Details on this additional award are available on OneJA.
JOIN THE NEXT JA GLOBAL TOWN HALL
Get ready for the next JA Global Town Hall on September 16 at 9amEDT/3pmCEST/9pmHKT. If you registered for the last JA Global Town Hall (March 2025), you do not need to register for the September session; you should have received a calendar invite from contact@jaworldwide.org. If you didn't register for or attend the March town hall, sign up for the September session on OneJA.
If you missed the March JA Global Town Hall or just want a recap, find all the resources—including links and a recording—on OneJA.
APPLY FOR THE JA WORLDWIDE LEAD PROGRAM
Applications are open for the JA Worldwide Leader Exchange and Development (LEAD) Program. This opportunity invites chief executive officers/presidents/executive directors with at least three years in their current roles to participate in an international leadership exchange designed to strengthen global collaboration and advance JA’s strategic goals.
Selected executives will join a cross-regional pairing and spend five days visiting each other’s operations, followed by a regional gathering. Upon completing the exchange and submitting their reflections, participants gain entry into the Global LEAD Forum (GLF), a network of JA leaders connecting virtually throughout the year and reuniting in person at GLC Rio this November. Find the application on OneJA.
BECOME A JA WORLDWIDE AI AMBASSADOR
Do you have an idea for integrating AI into a JA learning experience? Join the JA Worldwide AI Ambassador Program, an exciting initiative designed to empower JA staff to integrate AI literacy into JA learning experiences at the member or regional level.
As a JA Worldwide AI Ambassador, you will . . .
Collaborate with a global peer cohort
Develop and showcase your AI-related work
Receive expert guidance and resources
JA Worldwide AI Ambassadors who successfully complete the weekly cohort activity, beginning in June 2025, will receive a scholarship to attend GLC Rio in November 2025, where their final outputs will be featured. Applications are due by June 13. Apply on OneJA.
SHARE THE AI AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP COMPETENCY SURVEY WITH STUDENTS AND ALUMNI
JA Worldwide has launched the AI and Entrepreneurship Competency Survey, designed to assess students’ understanding of AI within entrepreneurial contexts and explore how AI training shapes the confidence and skills of young leaders.
The survey focuses on four key entrepreneurial competencies: self-efficacy, creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. It includes demographic and AI usage questions, along with self-assessment Likert items and knowledge-based questions that link back to the same core skills. As a bonus, JA locations can receive up to US$5,000 in funding for participation. Learn more at jaworldwide.org/ai-training-and-templates.
GET READY FOR THE LEARNING EXPERIENCES HUB
Launching July 1, the Learning Experience Hub is a dynamic catalog designed to help the JA network discover, share, and explore impactful learning experiences. Members are encouraged to share details about the JA learning experiences you offer to help our network build a collaborative, ever-growing repository. With intuitive filters and sorting features, the platform makes it easy to navigate and find relevant content.
By sharing your JA learning experiences across the network, members gain the opportunity to learn from one another and collectively enhance the quality and impact of learning across the JA community. Stay tuned for more details on how you can contribute your experiences and be part of this exciting new initiative. Contact Alison Gottsch-Walton if you have any questions.
REVIEW THE FY2024 MAJOR DONOR SURVEY
Thanks to the JA Worldwide Development and Operations teams, along with the Junior Achievement USA compliance process and every JA location that shared information, we're delighted to share the fiscal year 2024 global Major Donor Survey results, ranked by total giving and by funder.
The Major Donor Survey (MDS) provides a snapshot of corporate funding donated to JA organizations around the globe based on a predetermined list of key partners, Fortune 200 companies, global 100 companies, companies represented on JA regional operating center and JA Worldwide boards. The MDS is not intended to represent all funding received by each JA organization, but is generally a good reflection of local funding.
GLOBAL NEWS
CATALYST 2025: EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS
This month, JA Worldwide hosted our first-ever CATALYST event. The New York City gathering of JA alumni, global business leaders, and champions of youth empowerment honored the belief that peace is built through opportunity, and opportunity begins with education in a commemoration of JA’s fourth consecutive Nobel Peace Prize nomination.
The centerpiece of the evening was a powerful fireside chat moderated by JA New York alumna Afnan Faiza, a first-year student at Baruch College studying marketing management. Afnan spoke with two visionary leaders: Marc Lore, founder and CEO of Wonder and NBA team owner, and David Meltzer, JA Global Council member, JA alumnus, and globally recognized entrepreneur and business coach. Read more.
Are you a JA alum? We invite you to join Gather, JA's global alumni community.
DAVID MELTZER’S ENDURING JOURNEY AND LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP
At CATALYST 2025, JA honored JA University Chief Chancellor and alumnus David Meltzer with the prestigious JA Legacy of Leadership Award. The award recognizes David’s 47-year commitment to JA and empowering youth through entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial health—a testament to his enduring legacy. Presented annually, the JA Legacy of Leadership Award honors individuals whose long-term commitment has strengthened the global impact of JA. David joins past honorees Patricia L. Francy, William Schawbel, and Dr. Walter Loewenstern.
David’s connection to JA Worldwide runs deep. As a JA alumnus, he personally understands the organization’s impact on young entrepreneurs. His support for JA stems from his belief in our mission to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy. "What I learned from Junior Achievement," David shared, "has been to enjoy the consistent, persistent pursuit of my potential." Read more.
CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL DAY OF LIVING TOGETHER DAY IN PEACE
At JA Worldwide, we believe lasting change starts with young people who lead with purpose and act with integrity. In more than 100 countries—including countries affected by political unrest or displacement—JA youth emerge as job creators, bridge builders, and agents of peace, with futures rooted in hope. Across the globe, JA helps young people become innovative problem-solvers, ethical leaders, and inclusive collaborators. Through learning experiences, staff development, and research, JA supports a more resilient and interconnected world. Explore how JA equips the next generation of changemakers to turn insight into action and values into impact: Read more.
FUTURE BOUND AND GEN-E: EMPOWERING YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS IN EUROPE AND THE U.S.
In June and July, JA brings together young innovators, educators, and partners at two regional flagship events in the US and Europe.
From June 9–11, Junior Achievement USA will host Future Bound in Atlanta, Georgia. Located on the campus of Georgia State University, the event will welcome more than 300 high school students for hands-on learning, national competitions, and mentoring sessions. Highlights include the JA Company of the Year competition, the Social Innovation Challenge, the JA Stock Market Challenge, and Titan Challenge. Backed by corporate supporters including Chick-fil-A, Delta Air Lines, Pacific Life Foundation, and Staples, Future Bound empowers students with real-world financial, career, and business skills. Read more about Future Bound.
Then, from July 1–3, JA Europe's Gen-E 2025, the largest entrepreneurship festival for young people in Europe, will unfold in Athens, Greece. With more than 1,000 participants from 40 countries, the event will showcase student-led startups, host expo stands and stage presentations, and culminate in an awards ceremony honoring the most impactful youth ventures. Under the theme “Trace your path forward,” and with support from the European Commission, Gen-E 2025 offers a platform for young people to share their ideas, celebrate their achievements, and shape the future of work in Europe. Learn more about Gen-E 2025.
MODERN ACHIEVEMENT EXPANDS TO THREE NEW INTERNATIONAL MARKETS
Modern Achievement is launching international editions in 2025, with three new book launches this month. This international bestseller by JA Worldwide CEO Asheesh Advani and pioneering business educator Marshall Goldsmith challenges aspiring leaders to define success on their own terms.
Packed with vivid stories from JA alumni, young leaders, and established leaders with vibrant illustrations by award-winning designer Ayse Birsel, Modern Achievement provides memorable, actionable lessons for leaders of all ages. The book is available now in Türkiye as Modern Başarı and is launching in India and Romania later this month. Keep an eye out for more international editions coming soon, following its selection as one of the top leadership books of 2024! The authors and the illustrator have donated all the proceeds from launch events and royalties from global book sales to JA chapters.
Learn more about these new international editions on jaworldwide.org.
ALUMNI NEWS AND OPPORTUNITIES
JOIN THE JA ALUMNI CLUBHOUSE x PMIEF LEARNING HOUR
On July 2, alumni from around the world will gather for a special edition of the JA Alumni Clubhouse, our monthly online meetup where we share updates, celebrate wins, and shape the future of our global alumni network. This session features the July PMIEF Learning Hour, a dedicated segment on project management for youth changemakers.
The session kicks off with a 40–45 minute interactive training led by a PMP-certified expert, offering practical insights and tools for alumni driving impact in their communities. We’ll also spotlight the top three most engaged alumni from Gather’s PMIEF Learning Minute series, recognizing their contributions and commitment to growth.
After the Learning Hour, we’ll shift gears to share regional updates, including exciting news from JA Africa and more.
Register on Gather. You’ll receive the Zoom link upon registration.
WHERE WILL ESP TAKE YOU NEXT?
If you’ve earned the Entrepreneurial Skills Pass (ESP) and want to join the JA Alumni European Conference in Cologne this August, here’s your chance.
JA Worldwide is offering one exclusive scholarship for an ESP graduate to attend the conference, covering the full cost of participation. This is a unique opportunity to connect with fellow alumni, expand your network, and be part of an inspiring international experience.
To apply, you must . . .
Have earned the ESP microcredential
Share how the ESP program influenced your professional journey and what opportunities it has opened up for you
Submit your story by June 15
Don’t miss this chance to represent the ESP community at one of the most vibrant alumni events of the year. Apply today!
LIMITED INTERNATIONAL TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR THE 2025 JA ALUMNI EUROPE CONFERENCE
This year, a few select international JA/INJAZ alumni have the chance to join one of the most anticipated events in the JA alumni calendar: the JA Alumni Europe Conference. Held this year in Cologne from August 27–31, the conference is known for its high energy, meaningful connections, and unforgettable experiences. Following the momentum of the Alumni Summit in Porto, this is a rare opportunity to engage directly with the European alumni network and be part of a truly global exchange.
A limited number of international tickets have been released on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets cost €205 and must be purchased directly through Gather. (Please note: There are no scholarships available, and participants are responsible for their own train- or airfare, accommodations, and ticket costs.) Official invitation letters will be provided upon request to support visa or travel needs.
Don’t wait—spaces are extremely limited. Secure your ticket today and take part in this unique cross-border alumni experience.
REGIONAL UPDATES
JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT USA
On May 1, Mercedes-Benz USA launched its Dream Days campaign to celebrate its partnership with Junior Achievement, which provides students with career and life education to help them pursue their dreams. As part of the Mercedes-Benz Dream Days initiative, every 2025 CLE Coupe sold will help send a student to a Junior Achievement program. The campaign will also feature special promotions on select 2025 Mercedes-Benz models, including the E-Class Sedan, CLE Coupe, C-Class Sedan, and EQE Sedan. Dream Days is an integral part of MBUSA’s corporate social responsibility mission, "Driving Your Future," which focuses on supporting education and youth safety programs to develop the next generation.
JA EUROPE
Gen-E 20205, Europe’s largest youth entrepreneurship festival, is officially open on its virtual platform and will culminate in-person this July in Athens, Greece. If you missed the Official Virtual Opening featuring the President of the European Parliament and JA Alumna Roberta Metsola, you can rewatch it at gen-e.eu and on JA Europe's YouTube channel. Over 2,000 European JA high school and university student startups showcase their ideas at the Gen-E 2025 Virtual Expo and compete for a place at the Athens final, together with the national winners from 42 JA Europe locations. Explore the innovative businesses in the Virtual Expo and cast your vote for the student business that inspires you most. Learn more and join the virtual event at gen-e.eu.
On the May 13, the final event of the Building Back Better Through Social Entrepreneurship project, a powerful regional initiative implemented in Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine, with support from the European Commission through the #EU4Youth Programme was hosted in Chisinau, Moldova bringing together over 450 participants, including national and international leaders, teachers, students and partners. At the same occasion, Junior Achievement Moldova celebrated 30 years of entrepreneurship education in the country. The anniversary event hosted by the Republic Palace in Chisinau brought together high-ranking officials, business, and civil society representatives to celebrate the impact of JA Moldova: over 300,000 students across the country were trained to think business and act with initiative. Read more.
JA AMERICAS
Earlier this month, JA Americas joined the Mana Tech community for an inspiring conversation about how launching a business in high school can change a young person’s life. Sean Summers, CMO of Mercado Libre and Chair of JA Americas' Regional Board, joined the discussion alongside moderator Charly Esnal, Mana Tech’s CEO and a proud JA alum. Two days later, at the Council of the Americas, Rodrigo Teijeiro (RecargaPay) and Guillermo Jaime (MIA) shared how their entrepreneurial paths began as JA students—and how early entrepreneurship can drive opportunity and prosperity across the region. “Participating in the Company Program was a before-and-after moment,” Rodrigo said. “It showed me I could build something from scratch and think big.”
These events mark the launch of JA MPower Fund, a US$3M initiative to expand access to early entrepreneurship education. Through the JA MPower Fund, JA America aspires to grow a community of visionary leaders who believe in the power of youth innovation. You can find storytelling tools, data-driven messaging, and a platform to engage this audience at juniorstartup.org.
INJAZ AL-ARAB/JA MENA
INJAZ Al-Arab/JA MENA and JA Worldwide held the inaugural MENA Alumni Leaders Academy Bootcamp last week. The gathering in Amman, Jordan, brought together ten newly onboarded and two experienced alumni leaders alongside office focal points—representing 12 INJAZ member locations—to empower alumni to lead across the region.
Over four transformative days, participants engaged in high-impact sessions designed to equip them with the skillset, mindset, and network to spark change at both the national and regional levels. Organized by INJAZ Al-Arab JA MENA and JA Worldwide, the bootcamp marked a major milestone in alumni engagement across the region. Read more.
JA AFRICA
In partnership with the Z Zurich Foundation, JA Africa hosted a mental wellbeing webinar, spotlighting social emotional learning (SEL) as a powerful tool for building mental resilience in youth. The session brought together educators, experts, and young people to explore strategies for supporting student well-being, reducing stigma, and fostering open conversations around mental health.
From powerful personal stories to practical tools for the classroom, the webinar offered valuable insights for anyone working with young people. If you missed it, you can still benefit from the discussion—watch the full recording and join the movement to create healthier, more supportive learning environments.
JA ASIA PACIFIC
JA Asia Pacific is proud to announce the recognition of JA Philippines in receiving one bronze and two silver awards at the 2025 Asia Pacific Stevie Awards. These awards recognize a commitment to delivering impactful, innovative programs with strong partners that empower Filipino youth through education, financial literacy, and skills development. Although the JA Philippines team could not attend the awards ceremony held in Seoul, South Korea, their JA Korea colleagues accepted the honours on their behalf, reflecting the unity and shared purpose of the JA network across the region.
The awards celebrated three outstanding initiatives by JA Philippines:
WiSTEM2D Bridges Project (Silver): Empowering specially-abled young women to explore careers in STEM fields, in partnership with Johnson & Johnson.
Cha-Ching Financial Literacy Programme (Silver): A fun, digital-first learning platform teaching primary students essential money skills, supported by Prudence Foundation and Pru Life UK.
JA SparktheDream (Bronze): A regional effort with FWD Life Insurance that helps young learners develop healthy money habits and life skills to become changemakers in their communities.
These awards honor not just the programs, but the educators, partners, and students who make the mission possible. JA Philippines remains committed to expanding access to life-changing learning opportunities, especially for underserved youth across the country. Watch the award presentation.
MILESTONES
AWARDS
JA USA's “Believe” video has received an Award of Excellence for writing from the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts' Communicator Awards. Submissions were reviewed by marketing leaders representing a broad spectrum of the industry, including McCann Worldgroup, American Express, Sony, Digitas, Discovery Communications, and Netflix. Learn more about the awards and AIVA.