Our Impact
Inspiring and empowering young people
Empowering Young Women+ 2025
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. It offers mentorship and career insights, while sparking conversations about allyship and the importance of building gender-inclusive workplaces.
On March 26, 2025, our annual Empowering Young Women+ event continued the celebration of International Women’s Day, bringing together teachers, volunteers, JA partners and 140 students from 7 schools across Central Ontario.
Previously known as Empowering Young Women, this field trip event has expanded to create more space for career inspiration, mentorship and meaningful conversations. High school students who self-identify as female, femme, two-spirit or nonbinary had the opportunity to connect with over 80 mentors from diverse industries, explore career paths, discuss allyship and champion inclusive workplaces.
"I wouldn't miss this event! Empowering Young Women+ is so important for our female students and it's always so well-organized."
Teacher
Empowering Young Women 2025
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 2025 speakers
Event Emcee
Karen Hunter – Senior Director, Data Innovation Governance & Support
Guiding the event with enthusiasm and warmth, Karen brought incredible energy to the room, keeping students engaged and uplifted throughout the day. Her passion for supporting the next generation shone through, creating an inspiring atmosphere that encouraged meaningful conversations and lasting connections.
Industry Expert Speaker
Cheryl Ho – Marketing Director at Church & Dwight
Cheryl shared her career journey and value insights on creating space for your voice, building resilience and finding balance. She reminded us that while you can have it all, it may not always be at the same time.
Industry Expert Speaker
Diana Godfrey – SVP of Human Resources at Fidelity
Diana reinforced the importance of lifelong learning, adaptability and staying ahead in an ever-changing world. Her message encouraged students to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
Meet our 2025 sponsors
About JA 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.
