Innovative Student Teams Triumph in FedEx/JA Trade Challenge

Shaping Tomorrow’s Business Leaders 2024 FedExJA International Trade Challenge, Asia Pacific Winners Announced (1) — L-R - Maziar Sabet, President and CEO, JA Asia Pacific, top 3 winning teams and Kawal Preet, President, Asia Pacific, FedEx.

Students from Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines emerged top among the 60 Finalists. The first-place winners were Team CJ, consisting of Cheryl Lim Xin Yi from Singapore and Julia Jasmine Binti Jufri from Malaysia.

Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, and Junior Achievement (JA), announced the winners of the 2024 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge Asia Pacific finals held at a live event in Singapore.

This year’s competition attracted over 4,500 students from 10 markets, including Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam.

60 students gathered in Singapore for the Asia Pacific finals and were tasked to create a market entry strategy for a product contributing to a circulatory economy, with Turkey being the target market. The challenge was particularly relevant to the growing discourse among consumers on how products affect the environment and the role corporations should play in shaping a sustainable future. Students were paired into two teams from different markets to foster cross-cultural understanding. The student teams then pitched their idea to a panel of judges of Singapore’s leading entrepreneurs and small business owners.

“At FedEx, we believe that the power of innovation and connectivity can change the world. The FedEx JA International Trade Challenge epitomizes this belief by promoting global entrepreneurship among the youth,” said Kawal Preet, president of Asia Pacific, FedEx. “These brilliant young minds are not just learning about international trade; they are addressing real-world problems with creativity and insight. As these young leaders break down barriers and build bridges across borders, they exemplify the FedEx ethos of connecting people and possibilities.”

The first-place winners were Team CJ, consisting of Cheryl Lim Xin Yi from Singapore and Julia Jasmine Binti Jufri from Malaysia. They impressed the judges with their innovative idea of creating biofilm from seaweed.

The two runner-up teams were Team Circuvate and Team ONE. Team Circuvate, which included Wesley Ng Yu De from Singapore, developed bioplastic plates funded entirely through advertisements for football stadiums. Team ONE comprises Rysa D. Sumalinog from the Philippines and Clarisse Chee Qian Ying from Singapore. They proposed turning food waste into traditional Turkish carpets.

“We are thrilled to be selected as the winners of the competition. It’s a great honor and privilege to contend with top talent in the region. Taking part in the competition was an eye-opening experience – it helped us understand that any great venture needs bold thinking, thorough planning and collaboration with peers and industry experts. Winning this competition gives us the confidence to continue exploring what’s possible on our path to becoming future entrepreneurs,” said Cheryl Lim Xin Yi from Singapore and Julia Jasmine Binti Jufri from Malaysia of the winning team CJ.

“I am deeply inspired by the belief that every young person possesses the inherent potential and the capacity to contribute meaningfully to society. The FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge reflects that belief, empowering our youth to explore their talents, innovate with purpose, and become the architects of a better future. At Junior Achievement, we are committed to nurturing this potential, knowing that today’s youth are the leaders of tomorrow, capable of creating positive and lasting change in our world,” said Maziar Sabet, President and CEO of JA Asia Pacific.

FedEx and JA Asia Pacific, a member of JA Worldwide, jointly organize the FedEx / JA International Trade Challenge program. In the last 18 years, nearly 50,000 students across the Asia Pacific have been introduced to the world of business, economics, and international trade through this program, which incorporates classroom learning and practical teamwork exercises. In addition to supporting young entrepreneurs through JA ITC, FedEx has been organizing the Small Business Grant Contest (SBGC) to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across Asia Pacific.

The competition’s judges, comprised of entrepreneurs and business leaders, were impressed by the organization of the competition and the students’ efforts.

“The experience has been eye-opening – to see the young minds showcasing their problem-solving skills and presenting their solutions so eloquently. It has been quite thought-provoking and immensely enjoyable.” Alex Fan, Co-founder of Sunday Bedding Pte. Ltd.

“I was incredibly blown away by the presentations and the thoughtfulness behind each proposal, especially knowing they were all done in only 2 days. It was also great to see learning and knowledge exchange between the participants.” Kloe Ng Co-founder of Out of the Box Education, Inc.

“It was such a pleasure and honour to see the incredible calibre and hard work of all the entrants. It’s equally impressive that JA Asia Pacific and FedEx pull all of this together, finding all these entrants and inspiring them to push forward in their lives and help them develop.” Michael Gilmore, Co-founder of The Money Awareness and Inclusion.

“I am impressed by the students’ presence and poise, especially given their short time to complete their analysis and prepare their presentations. They radiate confidence and thoughtfulness. Rather than judging, I see this experience as a co-creation, and through our interactions, I have no doubt they will bring something incredible to the world.” Ryion Pun, Co-founder of Guishi Pte. Ltd.

“Being a judge in this competition has been a joyful experience, witnessing the incredible talent and dedication displayed by these youth. It’s a privilege to witness their passion and hard work displayed in their presentation.” Benedict Leow, Executive Director of The Soup Spoon Pte Ltd.

“In this competition, JA Asia Pacific and FedEx are not just nurturing young entrepreneurs; they’re empowering the dreamers and doers of tomorrow. I applaud every participant’s courage to create and their grit to pursue their vision.” Long Tian Ching, Managing Director of Vance Group Ltd.

“I’m so impressed by the quality of business plans the youth participants presented, all prepared within 48 hours. The fact that each participant was paired with someone they didn’t know made this even more impressive. This competition is a boiler room of entrepreneurial experiences and insights. JA Asia Pacific and FedEx did a masterful job facilitating this competition and giving our youth the experience of regional competition.” Reza Behnam, Founder of Digital Direction.

“Great to see every team’s passion, creativity, and enthusiasm! Truly impressed with the depth of each presentation from these young minds. Such an honour to be a part of this event addressing important themes like circular economy and join other peers in helping to give back!” Prerna Pant, Director of Genesys.
“The calibre of the teams and ideas were incredibly high. I am so impressed with their ideas and presentation. I am so honoured to be able to take part in this competition. Well done, FedEx and JA Asia Pacific, in sustaining the ITC.” Low Chin Loo, Co-chair of CFA DEI Code Singapore.