The annual FedEx/Junior Achievement (JA) International Trade Challenge has once again highlighted the remarkable potential of youth in the Asia Pacific region. Held in Singapore, the 2024 finals showcased the innovative ideas of students who participated in a competitive environment designed to promote international trade knowledge and entrepreneurship. Over 4,500 students from ten different markets participated, demonstrating a significant engagement in commerce and sustainability initiatives.
The aim of the challenge was to develop market entry strategies for products supporting a circular economy, with Turkey identified as the target market. This focus reflects a growing consumer trend toward sustainable practices and corporate responsibility. Students formed diverse teams to encourage cross-cultural collaboration, an essential skill in today’s interconnected world. The final presentations, evaluated by a panel of esteemed judges from Singapore’s entrepreneurial landscape, served to amplify the relevance of these real-world applications.
Kawal Preet, President of FedEx Asia Pacific, emphasized the importance of this event, stating, “At FedEx, we believe that the power of innovation and connectivity can change the world.” His statement reflects the company’s commitment to fostering future leaders through educational initiatives that challenge students to think globally and creatively. Such programs empower young individuals to confront real-world problems, cultivating solutions that resonate with both consumer needs and environmental sustainability.
Among the standout teams, Team CJ emerged victorious with their groundbreaking proposal to produce biofilm from seaweed. This concept not only addresses waste reduction but also introduces a novel materials option that could revolutionize packaging and product design. Runners-up Team Circuvate and Team ONE also presented standout ideas: Circuvate plans to create bioplastic plates funded through advertising at football stadiums, while ONE proposed converting food waste into traditional Turkish carpets. These innovative approaches illustrate the students’ ability to intertwine sustainability and entrepreneurship effectively.
Expressions of excitement and gratitude came from the winners, Cheryl Lim Xin Yi and Julia Jasmine Binti Jufri, who shared how the competition refined their understanding of entrepreneurship. They noted the importance of collaboration and bold thinking, which are vital traits for aspiring leaders. Their journey underscores how competition can catalyze personal growth while equipping students with practical skills and knowledge applicable in the real world.
Maziar Sabet, President and CEO of JA Asia Pacific, highlighted the significance of nurturing young talent by stating, “Every young person possesses inherent potential and the capacity to contribute meaningfully to society.” This belief is central to JA’s mission. The FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge exemplifies this mission by equipping youth with entrepreneurial skills and encouraging them to innovate with purpose, which is critical as today’s students will shape tomorrow’s marketplace.
Judges recognized the impressive quality of the presentations and the creativity shown by participants. Alex Fan, Co-founder of Sunday Bedding, noted how eye-opening it was to witness students articulate their solutions effectively. Similarly, Kloe Ng, Co-founder of Out of the Box Education, praised the thoughtfulness underpinning each proposal, emphasizing that all work was done in a tight timeframe of just two days. Such rapid innovation demonstrates the potential of young minds when challenged to think on their feet.
Over the last 18 years, this program has engaged nearly 50,000 students, introducing them to critical concepts in business, economics, and international trade. By encouraging hands-on learning experiences like Team CJ’s, FedEx and JA are fortifying the foundations of future entrepreneurship in the region. The initiative not only provides students with the skills necessary for successful careers but also inspires them to contribute positively to society.
Ultimately, the FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge serves as a powerful reminder of the immense potential residing within young people today. By fostering an ecosystem where creativity and sustainability can flourish, organizations are essential in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. As students navigate complex global challenges, initiatives such as these will be fundamental in guiding them towards innovative solutions that prioritize both profitability and purpose.
As we celebrate the achievements of those who participated in this year’s challenge, it is clear that through these efforts, we are not just preparing the workforce of the future; we are also laying the groundwork for significant advancements in sustainable business practices.
