Our Impact
Inspiring and empowering young people
The Power of Youth Entrepreneurship: Turning Ideas into Action
Early access to entrepreneurship gives students more than business knowledge, it builds confidence, creativity and real-world skills. Through hands-on learning, students turn ideas into action while developing practical skills that would give them a boost that support future career readiness.
Early access to entrepreneurship gives students more than business knowledge, it builds confidence, creativity and real-world skills. Through hands-on learning, students turn ideas into action while developing practical skills that would give them a boost that support future career readiness.
The Company Program experience
That’s the impact of JA Company Program. Over 18 weeks, students in Grades 9–12 build and run a real business, from ideation to production, pitching, marketing and financial management.
This year, Cognizant supported nearly 150 high school entrepreneurs across Central Ontario, bringing the experience to life through dedicated community and corporate volunteer advisors who share real-world expertise.
One of those advisors is Sourav, a returning Cognizant volunteer. He continues to give back while growing alongside the students. Watching them grow in confidence, find their voice and turn ideas to reality has been deeply rewarding. It has also strengthened his own coaching and leadership skills.
Sourav’s advice to anyone considering getting involved?
“Go for it! You’ll create real impact while learning from the next generation.”
When young people are given the resources, mentorship and space to build something real, they rise to the challenge. Thank you, Cognizant, for empowering students to develop the skills and mindset needed to navigate a rapidly evolving world of work.
Hear from Sourav as he shares his experience supporting and learning from students in Company Program:
Junior Achievement (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.
