Our Impact
Inspiring and empowering young people
Empowering Young Women+ 2026
On March 26, 2026, our annual Empowering Young Women+ event continued the celebration of International Women’s Day, bringing together educators, JA partners, over 70 mentors and over 235 students from schools across Central Ontario.
This year’s theme, Ignite Your Future, set the tone for a day built around one powerful idea: the future isn’t one-size-fits-all. Students were encouraged to fuel their passions, embrace uncertainty and define success on their own terms.
Why Not Me? Workshop with Moneris
The Why Not Me? workshop challenged students to examine the stories they tell themselves about what they are, and are not, capable of. Through guided activities and conversations, students left with a renewed sense of possibility and the confidence to pursue opportunities they might otherwise have talked themselves out of.
She Builds, She Leads Panel Discussion with Aecon
Students then heard from a dynamic panel of professionals representing Aecon in a session. Panelists shared about the importance of making your voice heard in the workplace, navigating career paths that rarely go in straight line and building confidence in industries where you may not always see yourself represented. The conversation reinforced a key message of the day: diverse paths lead to incredible places.
Meet our 2026 speakers
Event Emcee
Abigail Leu – Private Markets Analyst, Social Impact Advocate, JA Alumna
As a JA alum, Abigail brought a special energy to the role of emcee, one that only someone who’s lived the JA experience firsthand can bring. Now working as a young professional in investment, Abigail guided the day with warmth and authenticity. Her presence reminded students that the JA community doesn’t end at graduation, it grows with you.
Industry Expert Speaker
Ashley Weeren – Lead, Sales at Church & Dwight
“Don’t be afraid to embarrass yourself.”
Ashley’s message challenged students to stop waiting until they feel “ready” and start showing up, because the willingness to try, even imperfectly, is what sets future leaders apart.
Industry Expert Speaker
Julianna Martino – Manager, Corporate Sustainability at Fidelity Canada
Julianna offered students a reassuring and energizing perspective on the road ahead. All you need is a spark, skills and the courage to light your match. In a room full of young people feeling the future to have it figured out, her words landed with real impact.
"I was able to make new connections and feel motivated by my mentors and peers throughout the day. I look forward to carrying this insightful experience with me throughout my own journey."
Brooke M., Student
Empowering Young Women+ 2026
As students navigate the complexities of today's world and envision their future paths, the need for inspiring mentors has never been more vital. Guiding them towards fulfilling careers that align with their values and aspirations requires dedicated individuals who are willing to share their experiences and insights.
Become the change-making mentor young people need today and consider signing up as a JA volunteer to share your career journey, experiences and stories with students and to motivate and inspire them as they plan their future careers.
Meet our 2026 sponsors
About Empowering Young Women+
Empowering Young Women+ is a one-of-a-kind event for high school students who self-identify as female, femme, two-spirit, nonbinary or nonconforming. We celebrated diverse pathways, all from launching a business, pursuing multiple passions to carving out non-traditional careers.
About JA (Junior Achievement) Central Ontario
JA Central Ontario envisions a world in which young people have the skillset and mindset to build thriving communities. They want to make sure all young people are economically empowered with the skills, confidence and networks to shape the future.
As a youth-centred charity, JA Central Ontario works together with a dedicated network of volunteers, partners and educators to deliver immersive learning in work readiness, financial health, entrepreneurship and more. JA students benefit from mentorship and real-world experiences, transforming their knowledge, skills, attitudes, and aspirations as they build their futures.
JA Central Ontario impacts students in Halton, Peel, Toronto, York, Durham and Simcoe regions. They are part of one of the world’s most-impactful youth-serving social good organizations – JA Worldwide – and they work closely with our national network, JA Canada.
