Our Impact
Inspiring and empowering young people
From Classroom Volunteer to Board Chair: Rhonda Klosler on Youth Empowerment
Introducing our Leaders Who Inspire JA series, where we highlight the people whose passion, expertise and commitment shape the JA experience for young people across Central Ontario.
In recognition of National Mentoring Month, we’re spotlighting Rhonda Klosler, Chief Operating Officer at RSM Canada and Chair of JA Central Ontario’s Board of Directors, whose leadership philosophy is grounded in the transformative power of mentorship.
From her first classroom volunteer experience to today, her belief in mentorship as a pathway to confidence and opportunity for young people remains just as strong over a decade later.
For Rhonda, mentorship isn’t just guidance, it’s the shift from ”I learned it” to “I can do it”. She has seen how the right support helps youth see possibilities in themselves they may not yet recognize.
At JA, this belief comes to life every day. Through learning experiences like in-class financial literacy and Company Program, mentorship scales in meaningful and accessible way: offering role models, real-world pathways and the encouragement students need to build confidence.
“In my work, I think of mentorship as stewardship–removing barriers, connecting people to opportunities and creating environments where others can do their best work,” Rhonda shares. Strong and thoughtful relationship-building is not only a key part of mentorship, but also an essential leadership skill that carries young people throughout their careers.
Rhonda’s story reminds us that mentorship isn’t a single moment, it’s a mindset. Join us in celebrating the leaders who help shape what’s possible for the next generation!
Watch Rhonda’s full story in the video below:
Be part of the community that champions JA youth. Get involved as a volunteer, partner with us or give a gift to support future-ready youth today!
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
