Celebrating a Transformative Partnership with Z Zurich Foundation for Mental Well-being
Empowering the Next Generation: Wrapping Up Phase I and Looking Ahead.
Over the past three years (2022-2025), our partnership with Z Zurich Foundation has empowered youth across Canada by promoting mental wellbeing and resiliency as critical pillars for lifelong success.
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
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
BMO and JA Launch National Partnership at Guiding the Future Event
Partnership Video Left to Right: Zabeen Hirji, Carolyn Booth, Rachel Bruce, Asheesh Advani,Mona Malone, Larissa Chaikowsky, Dusya Vera Read the Full Partnership Press Release On September 19th BMO hosted Guiding the Future which convened 300 individuals – BMO employees, community-based organizations, higher education partners, and members of the community – for an address by Junior Achievement Worldwide CEO, Asheesh Advani. The event also featured an engaging panel focused on youth future skills, and the importance of developing the next generation of leaders. Volunteer With JA Love0 Share Share Share Pin
Celebrating the JA Career Exploration Centre: Powered by Partners, Driven by Students
June 18, 2025 National JA Canada is proud to spotlight the Career Exploration Centre, our virtual, open-access learning platform that supports students aged 13–18 as they navigate future career possibilities. With interactive tools and sector-specific content, the Centre empowers young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their futures. This powerful resource continues to grow and thrive thanks to the incredible support of our partners. Their commitment to youth education and career readiness is driving meaningful impact and helping build a future full of possibility for young Canadians. The JA Virtual Career Exploration Centre Curious what’s inside? Keep reading to explore the three career rooms technology, skilled trades, and energy each packed with interactive experiences, videos, and real-world insights to inspire students across the country. Visit the Career Exploration Centre today and help prepare the next generation for success. Together with our partners, we’re opening doors to brighter futures. Interested in Sponsoring a Sector? Connect with Us Love0 Share Share Share Pin
Press Release: JA Canada and Enterprise Mobility™ Join Forces to Build the Road Forward for Canadian Youth
April 01, 2025 National TORONTO, April 1, 2025 /CNW/ – Enterprise Mobility has selected Junior Achievement Canada (JA Canada) as a key partner of the ROAD Forward initiative, helping fuel programs and strategic initiatives that are preparing youth for post-secondary education and the future of work. Launched in 2020, Enterprise Mobility’s ROAD Forward initiative supports organizations advancing social equity in three key areas: early childhood development, youth health and wellness, and career and college preparation. “The ROAD Forward initiative was designed to help open doors for youth who are disproportionately affected by lack of access to resources in the areas of education, career preparation, health and wellness,” said Earl Jackson, Enterprise Mobility assistant vice president of strategic diversity initiatives. “ROAD Forward grants support outstanding organizations that are leading efforts to advance equity in our communities across North American and Europe – and we are thrilled JA Canada has joined us as key partner in this work.” Through 2030, the ROAD Forward investment will directly support 75,000 student learning experiences, fueling program enablement and delivery of highest in-demand career readiness, entrepreneurship, post-secondary preparation, and youth well-being programs and events in all provinces across Canada. “Building on the longstanding engagement of Enterprise Mobility in Western Canada this new national partnership is a game-changer for JA Canada as we work toward our strategic goal of delivering 1 million student learning experiences annually in the coming years,” said Scott Hillier, President & CEO of JA Canada. “With Enterprise Mobility’s investment, we are strengthening our ability to support students and scale delivery of high-impact programs that equip them with the skillset and mindset to thrive in the ever changing economy,” said Hillier. This partnership will support three suites of JA programs: self-directed and digital learning opportunities; classroom-based program delivery; and intensive experiential learning through after-school programs and events including JA Company Program. Students will develop transferable skills, explore academic pathways and benefit from direct access to career mentorship, practical experience, and industry expertise. Enterprise Mobility team members across Canada will join as JA volunteers, sharing insights and guidance to empower the next generation. “I have personally supported JA British Columbia, a part of JA Canada, for many years in various roles and have witnessed the profound impact JA programs have in empowering youth to cultivate essential skills for success,” said Troy Klemo, Enterprise Mobility vice president and general manager in Canada. “JA Canada is an ideal partner to help advance our efforts to bridge equity gaps and support the next generation of leaders in Canada.” The support of Enterprise Mobility will also drive several key strategic initiatives− ensuring JA programs remain relevant by supporting program renewal, innovation and ongoing EDIA (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) best practices; expanding career readiness programming into new regions, including the Northern Territories broadening access to self-directed learning for underserved communities; as well as developing the foundations of JA’s alumni engagement strategy, fostering lifelong connections with Junior Achievers. JA Canada is thrilled to build the road forward along Enterprise Mobility and creating pathways to success for tens of thousands of young Canadians. Love0 Share Share Share Pin
A World of Choices – Preparing Young People for the Future of Work
September 04, 2024 National Interview With Mark Beckles – Vice President, Social Impact and Innovation At RBC RBC and RBC Foundation have been long-time partners of JA in Canada, supporting the development and scaling of career readiness programs aimed at equipping youth for the future of work. RBC’s partnership has specifically enabled JA Canada to focus on the trades. In the Spring of 2024, The Globe and Mail interviewed Mark Beckles, Vice President, Social Impact and Innovation at RBC to learn more about the partnership. Read on for the interview to learn how together we are empowering youth with the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in their careers through World of Choices and Skilled Trades Summits. What are the mandate and goals of RBC Future Launch? The goal of RBC Future Launch is to prepare young people for the future of work and specifically the jobs of tomorrow. That stems from the fact that we recognize Canada’s economic prosperity and future is directly linked to the extent to which we can prepare young people to succeed in an ever-changing global economy. We recognize when young people succeed, Canada succeeds; and that by investing in young people and equipping them with skills for a thriving future, we can ensure Canada’s economic prosperity. For the past decade, Canada’s GDP growth has trailed its G7 competitors due in part to the mismatch between the skills young people are graduating with from college and universities and the kinds of skills and experiences needed to super-charge our key productive sectors. By ensuring that young people have access to those skills and opportunities and know where they are, they can transition from school to work and find meaningful employment in the process, and if we do this well, we will have empowered Canadian youth in the way in which we intend. How does the World of Choices Program suite align with RBC Future Launch? RBC Future Launch is focused on three priority pillars. The first pillar is skills development. The notion of skills development and helping young people gain relevant skills, knowledge and credentials to better position themselves for the future really aligns to the World of Choices program and is core to what RBC Future Launch is all about. The second is networking and helping young people to connect with the right relationships, mentors and resources to grow and sustain their network. And the third is practical work experience and helping young people understand different job experiences and build opportunities to showcase their own talent. When you think of networking skills and practical experience that really aligns well to JA Canada’s World of Choices program. Why has RBC put an emphasis on skilled trades? Why now? There is a lack of understanding and awareness of the role that skilled trades play in helping to fuel Canada’s economic prosperity and moreover, there is a lack of education and exposure to what those opportunities look like. There is a real deficit in terms of the number of skilled tradespeople that are able to help advance and drive competitiveness in the Canadian economy. When you break it down by demographic; in addition to there being a lack of skills trades professionals across the country, there’s also under representation in terms of BIPOC youth and women, in particular. Then you add the intersection of green skills and skills trades and as we move toward a greener economy, we acknowledge that skills trades professionals need to develop new skills as you think about creating infrastructure to support electric vehicles or retrofits for homes that are trying to green their environments. Those are some of the reasons why we’re emphasizing skills trades and why we’re doing it now. What impact are you seeing as a result of these programs? We are proud of the outcomes that we hear directly from the program participants. When you hear directly from the program beneficiaries that they found value in the learning opportunity, that’s when you know that the partnership is working well. Particularly among diverse youth and women, hearing them talk about actively considering a career in skills trades to secure Canada’s future prosperity is really powerful. And it’s all the more inspiring when they tell us that through practical work experience, they’ve been able to transition into the trades whether now apprenticing or taking a college program in plumbing, electrical, or carpentry. These examples of people pursuing the skilled trades with a sense of pride and intentionality, and who are making a really good living demonstrate that we are contending with the stigma around skills trades, and changing the perspective of how skilled trades are perceived. What are RBC Foundation’s hopes for youth? RBC’s new Purpose Framework defines the societal challenges that RBC Foundation wants to help address. With a rapidly changing workforce, we will help equip people with skills for a thriving future. We want to ensure that youth feel more empowered for the jobs of tomorrow and support them as they access jobs that secure them financially, secure their families financially and secure their communities financially. When surveyed, nearly 80 per cent of young people ages 18 – 29 told us that they felt better prepared for the future of work. Outcomes from the World of Choices program contributed significantly to that state of preparedness. That’s how we know that these programs are working and having the desired outcomes. The World of Choices program supports general career exploration and provides the ability to scale programs that are focused on the skilled trades and allows young people to attend summits or learn through the online skills trades content center. It is phenomenal what this program delivers and that it is having the impact that we believe aligns to the larger goal of preparing young people for the future of work. Congratulations to JA for standing up this impactful program! Love0 Share Share Share Pin