‘Drive to inspire youth for entrepreneurship and employment did not waver’ – JA Malta CEO

JA Malta CEO Matthew Caruana on Wednesday highlighted that his motivation to inspire and prepare the younger generation for entrepreneurship and employment has not faltered, even two years into his job.

This came as he was celebrating his two-year work anniversary as CEO at the non-profit entrepreneurship education provider. During this period, JA Malta underwent a series of substantial changes, both in its brand, and its operations.

“Many things have changed in these two years. Our logo, our brand, team members, Board members, new programmes, new initiatives, failed projects, awards won, some disappointments along the way, new partners, new alumni initiatives, and many, many more,” Mr Caruana said.

In September 2022, just nine months after Mr Caruana’s appointment to CEO, the organisation rebranded from Junior Achievement Young Enterprise (JAYE) Malta to Junior Achievement (JA) Malta. This also came with a new logo and website domain.

In addition to this, last November, Chris Vassallo Cesareo announced that his time as Chairperson of JA Malta would come to an end, having served in the role since 2021. He has now been replaced by Fabianne Ruggier.

This period has also been one of personal growth for Mr Caruana, as last year he was also elected Chairperson of JA Europe’s Board of Executives and Board Member of JA Europe. CEOs of JA organisations from across Europe unanimously approved his nomination, and thus he will serve in the roles until 2025.

Despite these changes, Mr Caruana affirmed that his “drive to deliver impact, and the organisation’s mission, to inspire and prepare youth for entrepreneurship and employment did not waver”.

He proceeded to express gratitude to everyone who has been part of the past two years at JA Malta and for everyone who contributed to the organisation over its 35-year history.

“Looking forward to more collaborations and initiatives,” he added.

Prior to his time as CEO, Mr Caruana, a business innovator, coach, and mentor, had served as Business Mentor at JA Malta for four years.

JA Malta is a member of JA Worldwide, providing hands-on, experiential learning in entrepreneurship, work readiness and financial literacy. It seeks to give students pathways for employability, job creation, and financial success.