June 20, 2025 – JA student company Enchanted Co. has been selected as the 2025 CIBC Student Company of the Year. This annual award, adjudicated by a panel of community business leaders, includes a $3,000 prize and honours outstanding achievement in innovation, teamwork, planning, and business ethics.
Enchanted Co. impressed the judges with their custom keychains and phone charms, each handcrafted using printable shrink paper, resin, beads, and sustainable materials. Designed to be displayed on backpacks, keys, belt bags, and phones, the products were both stylish and personal. The team also took steps to reduce their environmental impact, with 50 percent of their phone charms made from eco-friendly materials.
The group placed a strong emphasis on social responsibility, avoiding copyright designs, setting fair work hours, and maintaining transparency throughout their process. Their products were designed to unite people, spark creativity, and support meaningful causes while encouraging others to share their own stories through design.
“While all the finalists were inspiring, Enchanted Co. stood out amongst their peers. Enchanted Co.’s enthusiasm for their product and execution of their vision were the difference makers. In addition to having a strong product with a wide market, it was evident that social responsibility was equally as important to Enchanted Co. Partnering with JABC to provide student companies such as Enchanted Co. with hands-on learning and building entrepreneurial thinking is both exciting and important, and we look forward to future projects.”
In keeping with their mission, the student company donated 10 percent of their revenue to two organizations: the African Women’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) and Sea Smart School. AWIEF, based in South Africa, supports women-owned businesses and sustainable economic development. Sea Smart, based in Vancouver, empowers youth to care for the ocean and helps clean up local beaches. Both organizations reflect Enchanted Co.’s commitment to education, innovation, and global citizenship.
“Our products embodied the idea that anything is possible, because we can customize anyone’s vision,” the team shared.
Enchanted Co. participated in the 16-week JA Company Program, where high school students work with volunteer business mentors to launch and operate their own ventures. Along the way, students gain experience in areas such as product development, marketing, financial literacy, and team leadership.
We extend our sincere thanks to CIBC for supporting this award. Their support helps empower young people with hands-on learning experiences that build confidence and entrepreneurial thinking.
Congratulations, Enchanted Co.! View their video here.