On April 10, 2025, the spirit of inspiration, resilience, and ambition was alive and thriving at McMaster Innovation Park during Junior Achievement’s World of Choices Career Day. Hosted in partnership with Junior Achievement and proudly supported by the Rotary Club of Hamilton, this transformative event brought together students, industry leaders, and community champions for a day focused on shaping the future of the next generation.
With youth from across Hamilton and surrounding areas in attendance, the event created a space where students could explore a wide variety of career paths, ask meaningful questions, and hear firsthand what it takes to turn dreams into reality. For many, the highlight of the day came through the voices of two dynamic keynote speakers who exemplify success, community engagement, and the power of believing in oneself.
Dejehan “Luckystickz” Hamilton, a celebrated Canadian steelpan musician, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker, opened the event with an energizing and deeply personal keynote. As a globally recognized artist and founder of the Tune In Foundation, Luckystickz shared his journey from musical prodigy to global performer. With honesty and charisma, he spoke of the challenges he faced and the determination it took to rise in the competitive world of music and business. Most importantly, he encouraged students to embrace their unique talents and to never underestimate the value of passion, perseverance, and creative thinking. His presence was more than musical—it was motivational.
Following Luckystickz’s powerful performance was another hometown hero: Simoni Lawrence, former Hamilton Tiger-Cats legend and long-time community advocate. Simoni’s keynote message brought the crowd to its feet—not just for his achievements on the football field, but for his enduring commitment to youth mentorship and leadership development. He spoke candidly about the setbacks and hurdles he faced on the path to professional athletics, reinforcing the importance of hard work, focus, and resilience. His legacy as an athlete is unquestionable, but it is his impact off the field—empowering others to chase their own goals—that left the deepest impression.
Throughout the day, students engaged in hands-on workshops and breakout sessions with professionals from a range of industries, including healthcare, technology, trades, entrepreneurship, and public service. These sessions offered a rare opportunity for youth to interact one-on-one with local professionals, ask insightful questions, and explore career opportunities that may not have previously been on their radar. It was an environment charged with curiosity, optimism, and possibility.
The Rotary Club of Hamilton is proud to play a role in supporting Junior Achievement’s World of Choices Career Day. As part of our continued commitment to youth leadership, education, and community development, this event perfectly reflects our mission: Service Above Self. Creating meaningful connections between today’s leaders and tomorrow’s changemakers is not just a goal—it is our responsibility.
To everyone who helped make this event possible—our keynote speakers, workshop hosts, JA staff, educators, and volunteers—thank you for your dedication to empowering our youth. The impact of this day will carry forward as students take the inspiration they received and use it to shape their own futures.
We are already looking forward to next year’s event, building on this year’s success and continuing to uplift the potential of young people in our community. The future is bright—and with events like World of Choices, it’s clear that the next generation of leaders is ready to shine.
For more information about how the Rotary Club of Hamilton supports youth-focused initiatives in our community, visit rotaryclubhamilton.ca.