13 February, 2025 – Meet Bryan, a testament to the power of JA Programs. As a high school senior at University-Hill Secondary School and a two-time participant in Discovery Foundation’s Discover Your Pitch competition, presented by JABC, Bryan’s journey showcases the impact of experiential learning on personal and professional growth.
Bryan’s JABC experience began with the JA Company Program, where his leadership and organizational skills took center stage. At his school, the program operates uniquely under the Business Club, which Bryan co-leads. Without a teacher directly running the program, Bryan and his co-leader became the first in Canada to guide their peers as student mentors of Company Program, supervised by their business teacher. This opportunity developed Bryan’s abilities in collaboration, communication, and problem-solving—skills he considers invaluable for his future.
Reflecting on his journey, Bryan shared, “Through Company Program, I learned more than just business, I learned skills like communication, collaboration, problem-solving and finance that will be invaluable to my future.” Building on the skills he gained from Company Program, Bryan participated in Discover Your Pitch where he excelled as both an innovator and a leader. In 2023, he secured 2nd place with ReFila Company, a venture focused on recycling plastic bottles into sustainable, customisable products like keychains. Initially nervous about public speaking, Bryan credits the program for helping him overcome his fears. By 2024, Bryan’s growth was undeniable—his team won Discover Your Pitch with CompostaBoard, a company offering sustainable, biodegradable gift products such as coasters and storage containers, all designed using post-consumer waste.
In 2024, Bryan was honoured with the prestigious Junior Entrepreneur Award in recognition of his outstanding leadership and innovative thinking. His ability to create impactful, eco-friendly business solutions while inspiring his peers set him apart as a true entrepreneurial role model.
“Being able to practice with a goal in mind provided motivation that significantly improved my public speaking. Public speaking is one skill that will be vital no matter where I go in the future.” Bryan noted.
Bryan’s entrepreneurial journey extends beyond JABC. Under his leadership, the business club has achieved a high number of product sales, competition wins, and a surge in membership. Beyond business, Bryan’s passion for engineering and problem-solving shines through his involvement in other school initiatives, including the Physics and Engineering Club, the Ultimate Frisbee Club, and the Newscast Club.
As he prepares to pursue engineering in university, Bryan reflects on how his experiences with JA have shaped his career aspirations. For him, the intersection of engineering and entrepreneurship lies in problem-solving—an invaluable skill for both disciplines.
When asked to offer advice to his peers, Bryan emphasized:
“I believe that as a student you have the lowest risk when it comes to trying new things than any other point in your life. And who knows? You may just find something you enjoy that you have not thought about before. I have learned so much and gained so much experience with JA that I would have never without. I am forever grateful that I decided to take that opportunity.”
Bryan’s story is a powerful reminder of the potential within every young individual and the opportunities that JABC provides to unlock that potential.
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