“Junior Achievement Gave Me a Future”

At Junior Achievement, we believe in the power of real-world experiences and mentorship to open doors for students. For Jovan E., from International High School of New Orleans, this belief has become his reality.

His path began to take shape when he attended the YouthForce NOLA and Junior Achievement Career Expo when he was in 9th grade. From there, he went on to participate in JA’s Mock Interviews. Going into these experiences, he had no idea how much they would shape his future. According to Jovan, these programs have built his confidence, helped him to know how to articulate his strengths, to navigate professional conversations, and to hold his head high in any interview setting.   

Following this preparation, he earned the opportunity of a lifetime—an internship at Trimedx, shadowing the Biomedical Equipment Technician (BMET) team. While he couldn’t physically handle the equipment, he immersed himself in the work, observing, asking questions, and using virtual reality simulations to understand complex medical devices. But the lessons went far beyond technology. The team welcomed him like family, teaching him about life, responsibility, and the power of teamwork. They showed him how to adapt in high-pressure situations, how to communicate with confidence, and most importantly, how to find purpose in his work.

Through it all, one mentor stood out—Bryant Hawkins.

Volunteer Bryant Hawkins from Trimedx demonstrates equipment with a student at the 2025 YouthForce NOLA and Junior Achievement Career Expo.

From the very beginning, Bryant was more than just a guide; he was a source of encouragement, reminding Jovan that success takes time, that everyone starts small, and that no one achieves greatness alone. He taught him to stand tall, speak with conviction, and never underestimate the impact of a firm handshake and direct eye contact. Bryant knew that mentoring wasn’t just about teaching skills—it was about showing Jovan the infinite possibilities ahead of him.

 One day, Bryant took him on a tour of the hospital. As they walked through the halls, they passed by the very equipment Jovan had been studying. But this time, he saw it in use—helping patients, saving lives. That was the moment it all clicked. This wasn’t just a job. It was a calling. The realization became even more personal when Jovan himself underwent a life-changing surgery. Lying in the hospital bed, he looked up and saw the Trimedx label on the equipment keeping him safe. In that moment, he felt an overwhelming sense of comfort, knowing he was in good hands—hands he hoped to one day be a part of.

The impact of this journey reached beyond the hospital walls. At a career day event, Jovan stood in front of an audience, sharing his experience with confidence and passion. In the crowd, listening intently, was the President of the College of Biomedical Equipment Technology. Moved by Jovan’s story, he offered him a college scholarship on the spot. Just like that, everything changed.

 For Bryant, seeing Jovan grow into the young professional he is today was one of the most rewarding experiences of his career. He watched as Jovan’s curiosity turned into passion, as hesitation transformed into confidence. He saw firsthand how exposure to real-world experiences can change the trajectory of a young person’s life. And for Jovan, this was only the beginning. He now steps forward into a future he once never knew existed, knowing that with hard work, mentorship, and belief in himself, he can reach the stars.