JA of Central Indiana and PS43 Foundation Partner to Inspire Big Dreamers

Author: Mariah Maier
Community Involvement
Published: Tuesday, 20 May 2025

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Image caption: JA x PS43 Partnership Graphic

We're excited to officially launch Inspire Big Dreamers! 🎉

Junior Achievement of Central Indiana (JA) and the PS43 Foundation, founded by NBA star Pascal Siakam, are proud to announce the launch of the "Inspire Big Dreamers" initiative, a dynamic partnership aimed at expanding educational opportunities and personal growth for youth in Central Indiana. This collaboration is designed to ignite potential, inspire big dreams, and provide critical life skills to the next generation.

Inspire Big Dreamers combines the expertise and resources of both organizations to create programming centered around:

STEM education
Work readiness
Life skills and character development
Mentorship opportunities

Together, we’ll help students across Central Indiana develop confidence, build critical skills, and prepare for the rapidly evolving world ahead.

The Inspiration that Built PS43

Pascal Siakam’s own journey—from a tight-knit community in Cameroon, nestled within the diverse landscapes of Africa, to NBA stardom—is proof of what’s possible with hard work, resilience, and the right support system. Just as he overcame long odds through relentless determination, we believe every young person deserves a shot at success, no matter where they begin.

A Message from Leadership

“Every innovation, every breakthrough, starts with curiosity and the confidence to explore the unknown,” said Jennifer Burk, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of Central Indiana. “Through this partnership with the PS43 Foundation, we’re not just teaching skills—we’re fueling young minds to think big, experiment, and shape the future with bold ideas.”

“The journey to success begins with a single step, and through this partnership, we can provide young dreamers with the encouragement and skills to take that step,” said Pascal Siakam, Founder of the PS43 Foundation. “Just like I had mentors and supporters who believed in me, I want to be that source of support for the next generation.”

What’s Next

As the 2025–2026 school year approaches, we’re excited to roll out this initiative and begin making a lasting impact on students across our community. The future is bright—and this is just the beginning.

👉 Learn more about:

📩 For more information about the Inspire Big Dreamers initiative, contact:
Mariah Maier
Marketing & Communications Manager
Junior Achievement of Central Indiana
📞 317.252.5900 x13
📧 mariah@jaindy.org

Dakota Whyte (She/Her)
Executive Director, PS43 Foundation
📞 (416) 407-8540
📧 dakota@ps43foundation.com