CELEBRATING YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS: JA SOUTH AFRICA AWARDS CERTIFICATES OF COMPLETION FOR 2024 COMPANY OF THE YEAR PROGRAM

Over the past few weeks, Junior Achievement South Africa (JA South Africa) has been on the road, visiting schools across the province to award Certificates of Completion to learners who successfully participated in the 2024 JA Company of the Year Program.

These certificates are more than just a piece of paper — they’re a recognition of dedication, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. They are awarded to learners who have completed the three-month JA Company Program, engaging in hands-on learning experiences that included key concepts in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and preparation for the future world of work.

Throughout the program, learners formed their own enterprises, taking their business ideas from concept to execution. Many of these ventures were not only viable but profitable, demonstrating the creativity and resilience of South Africa’s young entrepreneurs.

Funded by Absa Group, Entrepreneurship Development Trust, and Toyota in 2025, the JA Company of the Year Program Plus has become JA’s flagship offering. It targets Grade 10 and 11 learners and culminates in an exciting national competition — the Company of the Year — where provincial winners come together to showcase their businesses and pitch their ideas to industry leaders.

The 2024 competition theme, GreenOvation, placed sustainability at the heart of innovation. Finalists from across the country competed nationally, and the winning team went on to represent South Africa at the regional competition in Mauritius in December 2024, alongside their peers from across Africa.

JA South Africa is incredibly proud of every learner who completed the program — not only for what they’ve achieved so far, but for the potential they’ve unlocked. As these young entrepreneurs move forward, we know they’ll continue to shape a future filled with opportunity, sustainability, and inclusive growth.

#GreenOvation #JASouthAfricaCOY24 #InspiringYouth