Junior Achievement of Northern and Eastern Ontario marked a major milestone with its 10th Annual Business Hall of Fame, celebrating a decade of honouring exceptional business leaders across the region.
Held at The Venue in downtown Peterborough, the 2025 gala recognized twelve outstanding inductees whose entrepreneurial leadership and community contributions have helped shape the local economy.
This year’s honourees included:
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Darrell Junkin, Craftworks at the Barn
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Tony and Kelli Grady, Grady Feet Essentials
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Grant Seabrooke, Machine Dynamics Ltd.
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Matt Holmes and Michael Riseley, Holmes Riseley LLP
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Michael and Eric Easton, Peterborough Volkswagen
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Donnell Leahy, Natalie MacMaster and Julia Leahy, Natalie Donnell Entertainment
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Margo and Paul Hudson, Jo Anne’s Place Health Foods
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Nancy Wiskel, DJC Modern Apparel
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Martin and Kelly Carbajal, La Mesita Restaurante
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Drew Merrett, Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre
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Diane Richard, Diatom Consulting
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Raj Patel, Ennismore Foodland
John McNutt, President and CEO of JA-NEO, says the 10th anniversary marks not only a celebration of past achievements but also a commitment to the future. “This event is a tribute to those who believe in the power of financial literacy, education and entrepreneurship,” said McNutt. “It also marks the completion of our 10 for 10 initiative, supporting education for the next decade.”
Proceeds from the Hall of Fame support JA-NEO’s youth programs in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and career readiness, which reach thousands of students each year. Since 2023, the Hall of Fame has recognized more than 15 local leaders, with this year’s event adding to a growing legacy of community impact and youth empowerment.
