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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

JA Alumni in the News: Turning Point

December 17, 2025 Saskatchewan What started as an In-School JA Company Program experience in 2021 has now developed into an apparel business in Regina, SK: Turning Point. The business stays close to it’s mission and donates 20% of their profits to support to mental health and suicide prevention by supporting the You Matter Foundation. In November, Logan Curle & Tayson Smith were featured in a CTV segment to share more about Turning Point. This was a great opportunity to feature the business, where it began and where it is going. Logan Curle was also the recipient of the 2022 JA Future Leaders Scholarship referencing his experiences with through JA and the JA Company Program and the early days of his involvement with Turning Point. CTV Media Segment Watch CTV Segment Learn About Turning Point Love0 Share Share Share Pin

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

Canada Represented at JA Americas Company of the Year Competition in Brazil

December 11, 2025 National In November, Canada proudly represented at the JA Americas Company of the Year (COY) competition, held this year in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Our Canadian champions, TopShelf, earned their spot among the top 20 student-led companies across the JA Americas region and were invited to take part in this unique opportunity and in-person event. With a mission to inspire childhood literacy through beautifully illustrated books, TopShelf impressed judges and peers as they pitched their company, networked with teams from across the Americas, and showcased their products at the Trade Fair. This experience offered an incredible opportunity to build connections and celebrate the creativity and innovation of JA Company Program participants from across the region. Adding to Canada’s presence at the event, JA Central Ontario alumna Micole joined as a COY Influencer, sharing highlights and behind-the-scenes moments on social media to bring this exciting experience to a wider audience. COY Americas Media Gallery Love0 Share Share Share Pin

CIRO Article: Better Financial Literacy for the Kids of Today and Tomorrow

December 05, 2025 National How do you teach kids financial literacy when most adults never learned it themselves? This November for Financial Literacy Month, CIRO is encouraging adults to “Talk Money” with kids and youth by providing a Parents’ Guide to Raising Money-Smart Kids. But another way might be found through Junior Achievement Canada (JA Canada). JA Canada delivers hands-on, immersive and digital learning experiences that help inspire kids, translating financial concepts into real-life experience. “Kids don’t always learn about finances at home or sometimes it doesn’t resonate when it comes from a parent,” says Jennifer James, Vice-President of Programs and Charter Services at JA Canada. “Engaging in an interactive and fun learning experience through JA can make all the difference.” At JA Canada, financial literacy is a core life skill. Their programs, such as More than Money, Dollars with Sense, Scam Smarts, Investment Strategies and Personal Finance aim to provide in-class or independent learning to help students learn how saving, spending and investing shape their futures. Many participate through JA Campus, an online learning hub for youth, educators and parents that can be accessed remotely or through a local JA office, making it easy for parents or educators to bring these options into the home or classroom. JA in Canada has also built strong partnerships with schools, helping to create the systemic change needed to support long-term financial well-being. Read Full Article on CIRO Website Love0 Share Share Share Pin

Press Release: Strategic Partnerships Fuel JA Canada’s Renewal of Investment Strategies Program

November 05, 2025 National With support of CIRO, Wealthsimple Foundation, and a consortium of partners, JA in Canada will equip over 25,000 students annually with responsible investment education. TORONTO, Nov. 3, 2025 /CNW/ – Junior Achievement of Canada (JA Canada) is excited to announce the renewal of its signature Investment Strategies Program (ISP), a dynamic classroom experience designed to equip students with essential investing knowledge, now with a fresh look, flexible format, and made possible through new partnerships with the Wealthsimple Foundation, the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO), and a consortium of supporting foundations and partners committed to financial health. As outlined by the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada, Canadians today face an increasingly complex and digital financial marketplace. The national vision is to build a more accessible, inclusive, and effective financial literacy ecosystem; that work starts with preparing our young people today. This program empowers students to build a strong foundation in investing fundamentals, while gaining hands-on experience through a real-time Stock Market Simulation. As educators look to equip youth with skills and experience to prepare for their financial futures, JA’s Investment Strategies Program is one of the most in-demand financial literacy programs nationally. With the renewal of this vital initiative, JA Canada aims to scale its reach, directly impacting over more than 250,000 students over the next 10 years. This expansion marks a significant milestone: ISP will now be accessible to learners coast-to-coast-to-coast in both English and French, with an anticipated growth of 40% more youth learning experiences year over year. What’s New in the Program? Designed with both educators and students in mind, the renewed program introduces a modular and flexible format, making it easier than ever to integrate into classroom learning. The redesigned program features interactive learning content, videos, and engaging student activities. The program, consisting of eight modules, each ranging from 30 to 90 minutes, provides teachers with the flexibility to deliver the full curriculum or select specific modules based on their classroom needs. Students develop a personal investment plan to apply key investing concepts in a real-world context. And in addition to the curriculum, students take part in an interactive six-week Stock Market Simulation, where they apply their knowledge in real time, gaining both foundational investment skills and practical experience. Key program enhancements: Sustainable, responsible & safe investing lessons Modernized interactive stock market simulation Redesigned learning content, videos, and engaging student activities Industry partnership integrations for real-world market insights, career pathways, and opportunity/knowledge sharing “We’re incredibly grateful to our financial and education partners whose support drives key initiatives like JA’s Investment Strategy program.” said Jennifer James, JA Canada Vice President, Programs and Charter Services. “Their investment enables us to create and deliver high-quality, experiential learning resources that not only align with curriculum, but also make a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Together, we’re equipping youth with the confidence and financial capability to shape a stronger, more secure future.” New Partnerships Powering the Relaunch The renewal of the Investment Strategies Program is made possible through the support of new National Development Partners: Wealthsimple Foundation and CIRO. These partners bring a shared commitment to youth education, financial literacy, and equitable access to future-ready skills across Canada. “At Wealthsimple Foundation, we know the path to financial freedom starts with building confidence and that confidence comes from access. Investing shouldn’t feel intimidating or out of reach,” says Emily Naddaf, Director, Wealthsimple Foundation. “Our partnership with Junior Achievement and CIRO will help make learning about investing simpler and more fun for students from coast to coast. We’re eager to continue to infuse the fun and fresh approach Wealthsimple Foundation is known for into Canada’s largest student investing initiative.”  “CIRO aims to support Canadian investors in their investment journey, beginning with financial skills and know-how for children and youth,” said Alexandra Williams, Senior Vice-President, Strategy, Innovation and Stakeholder Protection. “We are thrilled to assist Junior Achievement Canada in the renewed Investment Strategies Program, and to help more young Canadians access the training and skills they need to become savvy investors.”   Together, we’re working to ensure that all young Canadians, regardless of geography or background, have access to the knowledge and tools they need to confidently navigate financial decision making and explore careers in the financial sector. View Press Release Love0 Share Share Share Pin

Z Zurich Foundation and JA Commit to Youth Mental Well-Being and Resilience

February 20, 2026 National Our partnership promotes mental wellbeing and resilience in JA’s program suite to positively impact of 355,000 young people in the next three years. Expanding Our Commitment: Looking Ahead to Part II Empowering the Next Generation: Wrapping Up Phase I Love0 Share Share Share Pin

JA Canada Participates in Trades Summit in Northwest Territories

We were deeply honoured to partner with Aurora College over the past two weeks to support 90 youth in the Northwest Territories as they explored pathways in the trades and learned about budgeting, entrepreneurship and career planning. Spending time in Fort Smith, NWT, allowed us to witness the strength of Indigenous communities, the beauty of the land, and the deep collaboration that truly reflects the meaning of community. Thank you to the people of Fort Smith for welcoming us and allowing JA to be part of the Trades Awareness Program. We were delighted to have students participate in the JA Be Entrepreneurial program and participate in a hands-on budgeting activity. Student Testimonials: I really liked how much variety there is in the program. Everyone was super nice. All in all, 11/10 experience! I want to be a clothing designer because I have been making clothes out of scraps since I was younger. I t brings me joy knowing I’m able to make something out of nothing with a piece of fabric. I liked learning new trades that I haven’t done yet and don’t know. Love0 Share Share Share Pin