JA ignite at concordia university of edmonton

find your spark
On September 13, we brought together ambitious students at Concordia University of Edmonton for JA Ignite 2025—our high-energy launch event that set the stage for another inspiring year of the Company Program.
The day was filled with entrepreneurial energy, connection, and big ideas. Students experienced what felt like their very first business conference—complete with real stories from local entrepreneurs, engaging alumni panels, and interactive sessions designed to spark innovation.
A highlight of the event was keynote speaker Nada Nasserdeen, Founder & CEO of Rise Up For You and two-time TEDx speaker. Nada shared her empowering talk, The 3 C’s to Becoming a Great Entrepreneur: building self-confidence, finding clarity in your values and vision, and choosing your council—the circle of friends and mentors who fuel your growth.
We also heard from Dr. Sherif Elbarrad, Dean of Management at Concordia, along with mentors and business leaders who inspired students to turn their ideas into action.
Students left feeling motivated, connected, and ready to lead their JA teams with fresh energy.
👉 Now it’s your turn! If you’re ready to step into entrepreneurship, build leadership skills, and work alongside mentors and peers, enroll in the JA Company Program today. Let’s ignite your future—together!

2025 JA Ignite speakers

Ally Stone
Founder of The Inspired Leader
Topic: The CEO of You: Leading Your Own Journey

James Wakelin
Creative Direction & Design
Topic: Creating Opportunities

Ashley Luck
Career Development Specialist
Topic: Unwritten Paths – Designing a Life You Love

Robert Tinga
Technologist & Startup Mentor
Topic: The Beauty of Detours: Trusting the Path While Finding Purpose Along the Way

Jeff Tetz
CEO of Results
Topic: Finding Your Calling

Krista Murphy
HR Strategist & Workplace Culture Advocate
Topic: Bounce Back & Build: The Entrepreneurs Mindset

Jennifer Keith
Community Engagement & Business Development
Topic: When 1 + 1 = ∞ Possibility: Unlocking the Power of Partnership

Luke Butterworth
Local Entrepreneur & Brand Strategist
Topic: When 1 + 1 = ∞ Possibility: Unlocking the Power of Partnership
Join Our Newsletter
Get the latest news right to your inbox.