Earlier this year, JA Mascareignes launched the 2026 edition of the JA Company Program, inviting young people aged 15 to 19 to take on an ambitious challenge: to create and manage their own student business under the theme “AI – Augmenting Innovation.”
This year’s edition celebrates a new generation of young entrepreneurs who are learning to use artificial intelligence not as an end in itself, but as a tool to spark creativity, drive innovation and develop high-impact entrepreneurial ventures.
After several months of learning, collaboration and hands-on experience, these young entrepreneurs are now ready to showcase the results of their journey.
On Saturday, 18 July, more than 200 students, representing over 30 student companies, will present their products and services during the JA Company Program Expo Vente 2026, to be held at CentrePoint, Trianon.
Over the past few months, participants have experienced every stage of building a real business. From identifying market opportunities and developing products or services, to managing production, marketing, finance, sales and operations, they have gained first-hand experience of what it takes to launch and run a company.
The Expo Vente is one of the flagship milestones of the programme. For many participants, it will be their very first opportunity to sell their products and services to real customers. Visitors will have the chance to discover the innovative ideas developed by these student companies, meet the young entrepreneurs behind them, and support their ventures by purchasing their creations.
Beyond the products on display, the event highlights the essential skills participants have developed throughout the programme, including creativity, teamwork, leadership, communication, problem-solving, adaptability and self-confidence.
Following the Expo Vente, the top-performing teams will advance to the JA Company Program National Finals 2026, where they will compete for the opportunity to represent Mauritius at the prestigious JA Africa Company of the Year Competition.
The public is warmly invited to come and support this new generation of young entrepreneurs while discovering how entrepreneurship can become a powerful driver of personal growth, innovation and economic development.
Admission is free and open to the public.
