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From VP of Marketing to President: Tanry W.’s Leadership Journey with JA Company Program
Congratulations to Tanry W., recently named the recipient of the PowerUp’s Emerging Leadership Scholarship!
Now in grade 12 and preparing to begin her business studies this fall, Tanry reflects on how participating in JA Company Program shaped her journey, giving her the confidence, tools and mentorship to thrive.
“What really drew me to the program was all the mentorship with the advisors, being able to connect with others, working as a team and truly creating a business with hands-on learning.”
Where It All Started
Tanry first discovered JA Company Program through a school presentation in grade 11. She was instantly hooked, especially knowing that the program was accessible and offered at no cost.
JA Company Program is a hands-on entrepreneurship experience where high school students launch a real business over 16 weeks with supportive mentorship from advisors.
“At the time, I didn’t know what I wanted to do and business seemed interesting. […] I’ve done lots of research into business pitch competitions or business programs, they always had tuition costs. When they said it’s completely free, I said, ‘Sign me up right now!’”
Growth Beyond Entrepreneurial Skills
Through pitching, selling and managing a team, Tanry shared how JA pushed her to grow in ways she didn’t expect. She faced challenges with avoiding confrontation in addition to micromanaging tasks, barriers that held her back as a leader. With the support of her advisors and peers, she learned to trust her team, create space for collaboration and lead with empathy and purpose.
“[The JA Company Program] helped me build my self-confidence, through pitching myself and advocating for my business ideas. It has also helped me in decision-making.”
Learning to Lead
Stepping into a leadership role wasn’t without its challenges. Early on, Tanry struggled with micromanaging the tasks taken on by her team. But with consistent support from her advisors, she began to embrace a more collaborative and effective leadership style.
“I think the big aspect was the mentorship and having the advisors every step of the way.”
Her Advice to Future Students?
“Just do it! Be decisive and take that risk, that’s where you’ll grow.”
Looking ahead, Tanry is excited to begin her business studies at university this fall. She hopes to return to JA Company Program one day as an advisor, ready to give back and empower the next generation of leaders.
Tanry’s story is just one example of the incredible talent and dedication we see in JA Company Program students every year. We look forward to celebrating more student stories!
What is JA Central Ontario’s Company Program?
JA Company Program is an after-school entrepreneurial experience that empowers high school students to start and run their very own business. With the help of a student group and volunteer mentors, students create, manage, and liquidate a business in 18 weeks. Through Company Program, students not only learn how to run a business - they also meet new friends, connect with mentors, network with professionals, and gain the skills and experience to shape their futures.
Interested in getting involved next year? Find out more information and sign up for notifications here.
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
