As President and CEO of Junior Achievement Northern Alberta, Cheryll Watson leads the organization’s mission to inspire and prepare young people to thrive in a global economy through financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and expanded career opportunities. A passionate advocate for entrepreneurship and youth empowerment, Cheryll’s journey began with Intuit, a global leader in financial software, where she gained an immersive understanding of the critical role small businesses play in economic growth. This experience cultivated her commitment to fostering innovation and financial literacy—core pillars of Junior Achievement's mission. In 2015, Cheryll made a deliberate choice to dedicate her skills and experience to her hometown of Edmonton. As a senior leader at Edmonton Economic Development Corporation, she founded Innovate Edmonton (now Edmonton Unlimited), creating a nurturing environment for locally grown, tech-enabled startups. This effort was driven by her belief that access to resources, mentorship, and skill-building is essential for success—principles she now brings to Junior Achievement. Cheryll’s dedication to building thriving communities led her to run for Mayor in the 2021 election, where she championed economic growth, innovation, and a city that works effectively for its citizens. She later played a pivotal role in launching STEM Collegiate, a public charter school focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. Today, she serves as Board Chair, continuing her commitment to education and leadership development. Cheryll is also the Chair and a founding member of the Downtown Revitalization Coalition, an initiative dedicated to fostering a welcoming and prosperous downtown Edmonton. Her community leadership, combined with her experience in entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic development, positions her as the ideal leader for Junior Achievement Northern Alberta. Cheryll, her husband Geoff, and their four adult children are actively involved in contributing to their community, driven by a shared commitment to building a stronger, more resilient future for the next generation.

As Director of Operations and Special Projects, Renée ensures JA runs smoothly behind the scenes by leading key operational functions like finance, IT, HR, and office management. She supports both strategy and day-to-day operations, working closely with staff and stakeholders to ensure operational excellence.

As Director of Engagement, Rochelle leads JA’s fund development strategy, building meaningful sponsorships and partnerships that sustain and grow our impact. She oversees the planning of flagship events, while leading a dynamic development team.

As Director of Programs, Nick oversees the development, execution, and ongoing improvement of all JA programs to ensure they align with the organization’s strategic goals. He leads the program team, builds strong relationships with partners and stakeholders, and works across departments to maximize JA’s impact on youth education across the region.

Erin is dedicated to building meaningful partnerships that help create life-changing opportunities for young people across Northern Alberta. As Senior Development Officer, she works closely with corporate partners, donors, and community leaders to secure the support that makes JA's programs possible. Passionate about connecting people with purpose, Erin enjoys fostering lasting relationships that empower students with the skills, confidence, and experiences they need to succeed in school, work, and life.

As Student Events & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, Lauren ensures that students, mentors, and volunteers have a meaningful and engaging JA experience. She brings organization and care to every detail — from communications to event coordination — all with the goal of creating supportive, impactful opportunities for young people to thrive.

As Elementary Program Coordinator, Kendra helps plan and deliver JA’s elementary programs through in-school, volunteer-led, and digital formats. She works closely with the Program Manager to support teachers, volunteers, and students, ensuring an engaging and successful JA experience for our youngest learners.

Oratile plays a key role as Company Program Coordinator, supporting students and volunteers throughout the JA Company Program journey. She helps guide student-run companies from idea to execution by coordinating program logistics, supporting mentors, and ensuring participants have the tools and resources they need to succeed. Through her work, she helps create a meaningful, hands-on learning experience that builds confidence, leadership, and real-world business skills for youth.

Brooklyn plays a key role in bringing Junior Achievement programs to life for elementary students. She supports the delivery of engaging lessons in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship by working closely with the Program Manager, teachers, and volunteers. From in-class experiences to virtual and volunteer-led sessions, Brooklyn ensures educators and mentors have the resources and support they need. Her passion lies in creating meaningful learning experiences that help young people build confidence and skills for the future.

As Fund Development Manager, Janis supports JA’s fundraising efforts by helping drive donations, sponsorships, and grants that power our programs. She brings creativity and organization to every initiative — creating presentations, marketing, and coordinating engaging and impactful fundraising events.

As Student Events & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, Lauren ensures that students, mentors, and volunteers have a meaningful and engaging JA experience. She brings organization and care to every detail — from communications to event coordination — all with the goal of creating supportive, impactful opportunities for young people to thrive.

As Elementary Program Coordinator, Kendra helps plan and deliver JA’s elementary programs through in-school, volunteer-led, and digital formats. She works closely with the Program Manager to support teachers, volunteers, and students, ensuring an engaging and successful JA experience for our youngest learners.

Oratile plays a key role as Company Program Coordinator, supporting students and volunteers throughout the JA Company Program journey. She helps guide student-run companies from idea to execution by coordinating program logistics, supporting mentors, and ensuring participants have the tools and resources they need to succeed. Through her work, she helps create a meaningful, hands-on learning experience that builds confidence, leadership, and real-world business skills for youth.

Jessi is passionate about helping students discover their potential through hands-on learning experiences that connect education to the real world. As Junior Achievement's Junior & Senior High School Coordinator, she partners with educators, volunteers, and community organizations to create engaging opportunities that foster financial confidence, entrepreneurial thinking, and career readiness. Jessi is dedicated to empowering young people with the knowledge, skills, and mindset they need to navigate their future with confidence.