JA PEI announces Hon. Marci Ien as host of the 27th Annual PEI Business Hall of Fame Gala
March 12, 2026 Prince Edward Island Charlottetown, PE – Junior Achievement Prince Edward Island (JA PEI), along with emcee sponsor Cox & Palmer, are pleased to announce the Honourable Marci Ien as the host for the 27th annual PEI Business Hall of Fame Gala presented by Provincial Credit Union. “I’m truly honoured to co-host the JA PEI Business Hall of Fame Gala and celebrate the leaders who have helped shape Prince Edward Island’s business community. What makes the evening even more meaningful is the work Junior Achievement PEI does every day—giving young people the confidence, skills, and inspiration they need to imagine what’s possible for their future. When we invest in young people, we invest in the strength of our communities.” Ien is a former host of The Social, and news anchor on Canada AM. She served as a Member of Parliament for Toronto Centre and as the Minister of Gender Equality and Youth, and continues to advocate for equality and inclusion. JA Company Program student from Grace Christian School, Emeka Aniobi, will join Ien as co-host for the evening. “I am truly grateful to JA for this wonderful opportunity to co-host this event alongside the esteemed Hon. Marci Ien in front of many prominent figures in the PEI business industry,” Aniobi said. “I am blessed to learn from this experience and thankful for what I have learned through being a part of the JA Company Program.” The PEI Business Hall of Fame was established in 1998 by JA PEI to provide a forum to pay tribute to Island business leaders who have made outstanding and enduring contributions to business development and their communities. Inductees are chosen by an independent selection committee comprised of leaders in the Island business community. Inductees will be officially honored at the JA PEI Business Hall of Fame Gala on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Delta Hotels Prince Edward by Marriott. This year, JA PEI honours 27 Years of Celebrating Today & Inspiring Tomorrow. It is the aim of JA PEI that by celebrating the achievements of outstanding business leaders of today, Island students will be inspired to follow their example. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available by emailing info@japei.org or calling the JA PEI office – (902) 892-6066. Tickets are $225 per person and tables of eight are $1,800. About our Hosts Hon. Marci Ien The Honourable Marci Ien is a former Canadian politician, journalist, and television personality who has built a remarkable legacy in both public service and media. Known for her unwavering commitment to equity, inclusion, and justice, Marci became a powerful force in Canadian politics and a role model to communities across the country. In 2020, Marci made the bold move from broadcasting to politics, running as the Liberal Party candidate in the Toronto Centre by-election. The riding, previously held by former Finance Minister Bill Morneau, elected her to the House of Commons on October 26, 2020. Just a year later, she was appointed Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet. As Minister, Marci led with clarity and conviction, championing national policies that pushed Canada toward a more inclusive future. She launched Canada’s first-ever National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, a 10-year, nationwide strategy developed alongside provinces, territories, and advocacy organizations. The plan was a milestone effort to tackle root causes of violence and ensure meaningful, consistent support for survivors across the country. She also launched Canada’s first 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, a groundbreaking initiative to advance equality and support queer and gender-diverse communities. Under her leadership, the federal government committed historic levels of funding to fight discrimination and create safer, more welcoming spaces for all Canadians. Before entering public life, Marci was one of Canada’s most respected journalists and broadcasters. She began her career at CHCH-TV in Hamilton before joining CTV News in 1997. As co-anchor of Canada AM, she helped wake up the nation each morning with warmth, insight, and thoughtful reporting. Later, as a co-host on The Social, she brought heart and clarity to conversations about culture, current events, and everyday life. Over the years, she interviewed world leaders, entertainment icons, best-selling authors and top athletes, bringing their stories to life with curiosity and compassion. Her excellence in media and advocacy earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Harry Jerome Award from the Black Business and Professional Association and an Honorary Degree from Humber College, recognizing her impact as a trailblazer and change-maker. Throughout her career, Marci has remained grounded in one powerful principle: great leadership begins with listening. She believes in always learning, leading with empathy, and creating space for others to rise. Her legacy is one of meaningful impact — not just for today, but for generations to come. Emeka Aniobi Emeka is a joyful person! His name, which means “God has done great things,” serves as the foundation for his life’s mission: serving others with excellence, faith, and joy. He is a firm believer that while it takes a village to raise a child, it takes intentionality and servanthood to grow as a leader. A student leader at Grace Christian School, Emeka has spent his school years stretching his capabilities – delivering announcements to a 350-person church congregation and launching a hot chocolate business through the JA Company Program. He recently had the honour of representing Junior Achievement PEI on stage at the Charlottetown Chamber of Commerce Gala to help accept the Non-Profit of the Year award. While he is mastering the art of the business pitch, Emeka eventually plans to trade the boardroom for the operating room as a medical doctor. He views what he has learned from his diverse experiences as an opportunity for stewardship, living by the words of 1 Peter 4:10: “Just as each one of you has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of God’s multi-faceted grace.” From warming the hearts of GCS students with hot chocolate and Biblical encouragement to diligently working towards his dream of medical school, Emeka approaches every challenge with a servant’s heart. He is honoured to co-host this year’s Business Hall of Fame and celebrate the great things happening in the PEI business community. For further information: Ben Macintosh, Digital Communications CoordinatorJA Prince Edward IslandP: 902-892-6066 | E-mail: bmacintosh@japei.org About JA Prince Edward IslandJunior Achievement Prince Edward Island (JA PEI) helps Island youth build transferable skills in the areas of work readiness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. JA PEI collaborates with educators, volunteers, and organizations across the Island to deliver hands-on, immersive, and digital learning experiences to 7,000 students in grades 3-12. JA’s mission is to inspire and prepare students to succeed in a global economy. Love0 Share Share Share Pin
JA PEI announces laureates to be inducted at 27th Annual PEI Business Hall of Fame Gala
February 24, 2026 Prince Edward Island Charlottetown, PE – Junior Achievement Prince Edward Island (JA PEI), along with presenting sponsor Provincial Credit Union, are pleased to announce the 2026 inductees into the JA PEI Business Hall of Fame. The PEI Business Hall of Fame was established in 1998 by JA PEI to provide a forum to pay tribute to Island business leaders who have made outstanding and enduring contributions to business development and their communities. Inductees are chosen by an independent, arms-length selection committee comprised of leaders in the Island business community. Inductees will be officially honored at the JA PEI Business Hall of Fame Gala on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Delta Hotels Prince Edward by Marriott. This year, we honor 27 Years of Celebrating Today & Inspiring Tomorrow. It is the aim of JA PEI that by celebrating the achievements of outstanding business leaders of today, Island students will be inspired to follow their example. Tickets are now available by emailing info@japei.org or calling the JA PEI office – 902-892-6066. Tickets are $225 per person and tables of 8 are $1,800. About the 2026 JA PEI Business Hall of Fame Laureates Harvey Stewart Harvey Stewart is the founder of H.F. Stewart and Sons and Trout River Industries, two businesses that have made significant contributions to Prince Edward Island’s manufacturing and construction sectors. He founded H.F. Stewart in 1989, followed by Trout River Industries in 1999, when he and a business partner designed and built their first live bottom trailer as an alternative to traditional dump trailers. Today, Trout River Industries is one of Canada’s established manufacturers of live bottom trailers, exporting across North America and to international markets including the Middle East, Jordan, Iceland, Mexico, and Australia. The company remains headquartered in Coleman, PEI, employing Islanders year-round and continuing to operate and grow from rural West Prince. Raised on a farm in western PEI as one of twelve children, Harvey developed a strong work ethic at an early age. He pursued hands-on training, completing a welding program at Holland College before starting his first business. Harvey built his companies through practical skills, determination, and a willingness to take calculated risks, overcoming challenges related to market acceptance, logistics, and international expansion. Harvey has remained deeply involved in his community throughout his career. He has been a member of the West Point Fire Department for more than 40 years and currently serves as Chief. He has also served with the West Point Development Corporation, sat on the board of Resources West for five years, and served five years on the O’Leary Community Sports Centre’s Board of Directors. His professional and community contributions have been recognized through several honours, including the Governor General of Canada’s Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal, selection as one of Atlantic Business Magazine’s Top 50 CEOs, and a Holland College Distinguished Alumni Award. Harvey Stewart’s career demonstrates how a business founded in rural Prince Edward Island can achieve sustained growth while remaining rooted in its local community. Kathy Hambly Kathy Hambly is the former Executive Director of the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce. Previously, Kathy served as the Director of Business Development with Innovation PEI, as Director of Marketing and Development for the Confederation Centre of the Arts, founder of the Small Business Centre at Holland College, and owner of her retail clothing business, Katherine’s Ltd. Kathy is an active community volunteer. Since her retirement from the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce, Kathy served on the Board of Directors and as Chair of the Human Resources and Corporate Governance Committee of Maritime Electric Company Ltd., as a member of the Board of Governors of the University of Prince Edward Island, and a member of the Board of Trustees of the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. She currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors of the Charlottetown Airport Authority. She is past-Chair of the Board of Governors of Holland College; past-President of the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce; recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award for her work on the Board of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of PEI; a former board member of Junior Achievement of PEI; and has volunteered with many other community groups and industry associations. Kathy graduated from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Business Administration Degree. She was recognized by the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada with the Executive of the Year Award in 2015. Kathy has spent her career involved in the Island business community as a business owner, advocate and champion of entrepreneurship. She places a high value on education as demonstrated by her volunteerism in the post-secondary sector. She has served as a mentor to aspiring entrepreneurs and the next generation of business leaders. Kathy has three daughters, Kelly, Becky and Emily McMillan and is married to Sandy Gillis. Robert K. Irving After graduating with a Business Degree from Acadia University, Robert Irving started working in the J.D. Irving, Limited family business. He is co-CEO of J.D. Irving, Limited and is responsible for consumer products both in tissue and diapers, frozen food processing, transportation and courier, as well as industrial human resource services. Mr. Irving is also President of Cavendish Farms. Cavendish Farms operates four frozen potato processing plants in North America including two on Prince Edward Island. The company also operates an appetizer plant in Ontario. Highly involved in the community, Mr. Irving supports a wide variety of youth education and literacy programs and is an active fundraiser and champion for community health and development. Mr. Irving is also involved with the Moncton Wildcats Hockey team. Mr. Irving co-chaired the Holland College Learning. For Life. capital campaign, chaired the Healthy Returns, Centennial and Extraordinary Care campaigns for the Friends of the Moncton Hospital, as well as the Capitol Theatre Encore, Spotlight on the Future campaign. In 2011, Mr. Irving received the Builder of Youth Lifetime Achievement award from the Boys & Girls Club of Moncton in recognition of his leadership and contributions. In July 2014, Mr. Irving was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow by The Rotary Clubs of the Greater Moncton area in recognition of his longstanding charitable work. In November 2014, Robert was inducted into the New Brunswick Business Hall of Fame. In 2016, the Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick honored him with its Champion of Literacy Award. In 2020 he received the Order of Moncton and in 2023 he was inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame. In 2024, he was invested into the Order of New Brunswick. Mr. Irving lives in Moncton, New Brunswick with his wife Jill. They have four adult children and four grandchildren. For further information: Ben
Long-standing Funding Support Helps JA Close Critical Gaps in Youth Financial Education
December 16, 2025 National TORONTO, Dec. 16, 2025 /CNW/ – Financial Literacy has never been more essential for young people in Canada. As students navigate an increasingly elaborate financial landscape marked by the rising cost of living, new technologies and changing economic realities, the need for financial education is part of the evolving landscape we’re responding to. As stated by the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada, “financial literacy has taken on increased importance in an ever more complex financial world.” This message is the driving force for Junior Achievement of Canada (JA Canada), that remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing financial empowerment to youth with funding support from TD Bank Group (TD). As JA’s National Financial Literacy Sponsor, TD supports program development and innovation as well as the delivery of a foundational program, Dollars with Sense. Through these programs, JA aims to create meaningful and lasting impact by ensuring students gain essential skills that can help build everyday financial confidence and help enable them to make real-world decisions that can support their long-term success. “Effective financial literacy education requires the collaboration of multiple organizations,” said Scott Hillier, President & CEO of JA Canada. “TD amplifies this work by bringing real-world expertise into classrooms and supporting program innovation that helps equips students with practical financial skills for life.” Students who have participated in JA Canada’s program have already experienced remarkable outcomes, including: These results reflect the types of learning experiences JA aims to create to help strengthen the financial health of young people across the country. “As students navigate an increasingly complex financial landscape, JA Canada’s work plays a vital role in helping young people build confidence in everyday money management. That’s why, we’re proud to support JA Canada as it continues to create opportunities for youth to access practical financial education that can help contribute to long-term financial well-being.” Said Robyn Small, Senior Manager, Philanthropy, Sustainability & Corporate Citizenship, TD Bank Group. Looking ahead, and with continued support from TD over the next three years, JA Canada is proud to continue its mission to equip 80,000 students with the essential tools, knowledge, and confidence to help them succeed. Love0 Share Share Share Pin
JA Canada’s Virtual Trades Expo 2025: Empowering Youth with Career Exploration and Skills Development, Powered by VFairs, Announced for June 6, 2025
May 16, 2025 National Toronto, ON – JA Canada is excited to announce the upcoming Virtual Trades Expo on June 6th for youth powered by vFairs. The Trades Expo is the first National event to be hosted on JA’s Career Exploration Centre, a virtual platform designed to empower youth aged 13-18 with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions about their future careers. This easy-access, self-exploratory simulation provides students with a wealth of resources to explore emerging career opportunities and trends in trades, technology, energy, and more. JA Canada, along with its Career Exploration Center partners Amazon Canada, TC Energy, and RBC, is committed to equipping youth with the skills, toolsets, and mindsets necessary to become the employees and business owners that will drive Canada’s economic future. The Trades Expo will feature webinars on more than 15 trades, and the self-guided Career Exploration Centre provides a range of interactive learning modules, webinars, and downloadable resources designed to enhance students’ understanding of various career paths and the skills needed to thrive in today’s job market. By engaging in these JA learning experiences, students can gain valuable insights into different industries, helping them to identify their interests and strengths. “We are excited to offer youth an opportunity to explore Trades pathways through these engaging learning experiences. The Trades Expo and Career Exploration Centre demonstrate our commitment to preparing youth for the future,” said Scott Hillier, CEO of JA Canada. “The innovative platform not only provides essential career information but also encourages self-discovery and personal growth, ensuring that our students are well-equipped to navigate their career journeys,” said Hillier. “We are proud to support JA Canada’s Virtual Trades Expo and Career Exploration Centre in empowering youth to explore meaningful career paths. At vFairs, we believe technology plays a vital role in creating accessible and engaging learning environments. This innovative virtual platform perfectly aligns with our mission to provide tools that inspire self-discovery and prepare the next generation for success in a rapidly evolving job market.”– Muhammad Younas, CEO, vFairs The Trades Expo and Career Exploration Centre are free and accessible to youth, teachers, and parents. The Career Exploration Centre provides tailored guides that support and maximize the learning experience. Teachers can integrate the platform into their curriculum, utilizing the teacher guide and activities to align with educational standards and objectives. JA Canada has a long-standing history of delivering impactful educational programs focused on financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. The Career Exploration Centre is the latest addition to JA Canada’s suite of offerings, reflecting the organization’s dedication to evolving and adapting to the needs of today’s youth. To explore the platform and register for the virtual Trades Expo visit Love0 Share Share Share Pin
2025 Royden Richardson National JA Volunteer Awards
At JA Canada, we are most grateful for our volunteer network. Last year, more than 6,000 volunteers across Canada helped us provide more than 445,000 learning experiences and opportunities to youth from coast-to-coast. Volunteers make all of this possible. National Volunteer Week is a wonderful time to celebrate our many volunteers. Each year, we recognize the recipients of the Royden Richardson National JA Volunteer Awards. These awards recognize volunteers whose participation has immeasurably furthered the aims and objectives of JA in Canada. This year, we’re delighted to recognize two volunteers in the programs category and one volunteer in the governance/administration category: Thank you to all our dedicated volunteers who make it possible for more youth to become inspired and prepared for the future! See a list of our current and previous award winners here. Love0 Share Share Share Pin
Press Release: Corporate Canada shows unprecedented support for the Canadian Business Hall of Fame
April 16, 2025 National TORONTO, April 16, 2025 /CNW/ – At this pivotal time for our nation’s economy, Canadian companies and organizations are demonstrating unprecedented support for the Canadian Business Hall of Fame (CBHF) annual celebration of business leadership. “The incredible roster of globally recognized brand corporations, foundations, education institutions who have pledged support is a testament to the mobilization and investment of the Canadian business community,” said Jim Leech, Chancellor Canadian Business Hall of Fame. Among those who have pledged support for the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in recognizing outstanding and inspiring business leaders are: Goodmans LLP, Peter and Joanne Brown Foundation, Beedie, Kilmer Group, Scotiabank, Franco-Nevada, Rio Tinto, National Bank Financial, RBC, NHL, The Globe & Mail, MLSE, Barclays, Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited, Korn Ferry, Deloitte, Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Limited, OMERS, RioCan REIT, CGI, CIBC, Canaccord Genuity, TD Bank, Teck, Avanade, University of Utah, PwC, Maple Leaf Foods, Air Canada, TorQuest Partners, Colliers, TMX Group, Irving Oil, Cogeco The Fund, Southdown Builders Limited, Lafarge Canada, Porter Airlines, University of Toronto, KPMG, University of Utah. The Canadian Business Hall of Fame (CBHF) proudly celebrates the remarkable achievements of leaders for their transformative contributions to Canada’s prosperity and business landscape, with proceeds of the event fueling JA’s mission to empower tomorrow’s entrepreneurs and innovators. The CBHF stands as a beacon of Canada’s economic development and prosperity. Strengthening Canada today transcends mere patriotism—it’s representing a commitment to investing in our communities and a dedication to building a more promising future. The Induction Celebration carries exceptional significance as it unites influential Canadian leaders and committed sponsors in empowering our nation’s youth and inspiring the visionaries who will lead tomorrow’s Canada. Honouring Visionary Leaders On May 22nd in Toronto, the Canadian Business Hall of Fame will induct the 46th class of Companions to the order of the Business Hall of Fame. The honourees have roots in critical industries including financial services, sports, manufacturing, equity & investment, natural resources, property development, construction trades, entrepreneurship, and academia. The 2025 honourees: Ryan Beedie, O.B.C., President, Beedie; Jacynthe Côté, F. ICD, Chair of the Board, RBC; Pierre Lassonde, O.C., GOQ, Chairman Emeritus, Franco-Nevada Corporation; Larry Tanenbaum, O.C., Hon LLD, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Kilmer Group of Companies. “These individuals who represent the very best in Canadian enterprise, leadership, and significant philanthropic impact,” said Scott Hillier, JA Canada CEO, “Their achievements and community contributions reflect the diverse backbone of the Canadian economy and serve as role models for the next generation,” said Hillier. Supporting Canada’s Future EntrepreneursThe Canadian Business Hall of Fame is the signature fundraising event for Junior Achievement of Canada (JA Canada) and stands as a powerful call to action. Proceeds from this year’s event will support JA’s flagship Company Program, which equips youth with the skills, confidence, and entrepreneurial mindset to succeed in today’s business world. JA is renewing its program curriculum to meet the needs of Canada and scaling this internationally recognized program.“Our ambition is to empower more than 1 million Canadian youth annually, fueling the future pipeline of Canadian business leadership”, said Hillier. Join Us in Celebrating Canadian ExcellenceThe 2025 CBHF Induction Ceremony and Celebration will take place on May 22, 2025, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Featuring special guest, Heather Hiscox, Senior Host, CBC News Network.Ensure your organization is part of this national celebration of Canadian impact, innovation, and leadership. Sponsorship opportunities, tables and tickets remain available on a first-come, first-served basis for this exclusive event through May 1st, 2025. For more information, please visit cbhf.ca/participate.“At a time when supporting Canadian businesses is more important than ever, we invite organizations across the country to join the celebration of business leadership, knowing that your sponsorship will empower the next generation of business leaders made for Canada,” said Gary Kalaci, JA Canada Board Chair. View Full Press Release Love0 Share Share Share Pin