Junior Achievement Worldwide

Junior Achievement (JA) is a leading youth-serving nonprofit, providing immersive experiences in entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial health to over 15 million students annually across 100+ countries. For over a century, JA has equipped youth worldwide, transcending borders, adversity, and social challenges to nurture a generation of future leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

As a Global Council Member for JA Worldwide, Brandon has been instrumental in shaping strategies, guiding initiatives, and advancing JA's mission across diverse communities worldwide.

His contributions on the Marketing and Development Committees have been pivotal:

• Strategic Insights: Brandon offered valuable insights on key projects, including the international brand relaunch and communication strategies for critical initiatives like the organization's recent Nobel Peace Prize nominations.
• Global Impact: Engaging in discussions and decision-making, Brandon has played a role in driving JA's mission, positively impacting over 15 million youth annually in various countries.
• Collaborative Leadership: Partnering with organization and educational leaders, Brandon champions hands-on learning in work readiness, financial health, sustainability, STEM, and economics, empowering the next generation of innovators and leaders.

Brandon's connection with Junior Achievement began in elementary school, where a JA volunteer, Kenneth Allen, ignited his passion for entrepreneurship. Kenneth, a young entrepreneur himself, sparked inspiration and motivation in Brandon’s journey:

• The Spark: Brandon vividly recalls the impactful visit of Kenneth, who introduced the JA Our Nation curriculum, instilling a profound understanding of essential skills for future success.
• Early Aspirations: Brandon's enthusiasm for entrepreneurship blossomed as he absorbed and cherished the JA worksheets, leading to the inception of his desktop publishing business at just 10 years old.
• Volunteerism: Driven by the desire to share his passion, Brandon became Junior Achievement's youngest volunteer, imparting entrepreneurial knowledge to students in Northwest Indiana, emphasizing the opportunities of entrepreneurship and free enterprise.
• Continued Influence: Throughout high school and adulthood, Brandon’s dedication to nurturing young leaders persisted. He organized volunteering initiatives, connecting his network to JA’s cause, culminating in a successful nationwide JA in a Day Challenge through his partnership with USA TODAY and Junior Achievement.

Brandon's impactful journey underscores Junior Achievement’s profound influence, from kindling his entrepreneurial spirit to his ongoing commitment to shaping the future of aspiring young minds. Through Junior Achievement, Brandon continues to inspire and uplift, embodying the belief that investing in our youth is investing in a brighter future for all.