Jonk Entrepreneuren Luxembourg celebrates 20 years

Celebrating Two Decades of Impact – With Eyes on the Future

Luxembourg, June 2, 2025 – Jonk Entrepreneuren Luxembourg (JEL) marked 20 years of championing entrepreneurial education with a warm and festive evening held at the prestigious BCEE headquarters in Luxembourg City.
For the past two decades, the organisation has empowered young people to think creatively, take initiative, innovate, and embrace responsibility.

The evening was highlighted by the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Guillaume, underscoring the vital role JEL plays in Luxembourg’s educational and socio-economic landscape. Claude Wiseler, President of the Chamber of Deputies, along with Ministers Claude Meisch, Martine Hansen, and Elisabeth Margue, were also among the distinguished guests.

The event began with a warm welcome by Sven Baltes, the evening’s host and Director of JEL. A video showcasing JEL’s rich history set the tone, followed by inspiring speeches from Françoise Thoma, CEO of BCEE, and Claude Meisch, Minister of National Education, Children and Youth. Both emphasized the importance of supporting young people in developing their spirit of innovation, creativity, initiative, and sense of responsibility.

Celebrating 20 years Jonk Entrepreneuren Luxembourg and 10 years JEL Alumni

Salvatore Nigro, CEO of JA Europe, took the stage to highlight the importance and impact of entrepreneurial education across Europe. A panel discussion followed, bringing together former and current participants who shared their personal experiences and the lasting influence of JEL’s programs.

A tribute video honored the commitment of volunteers, alumni, participants, board members, staff, partners, and educators. The impact presentation, led by Myriam Baustert and Yves Wiltgen, members of JEL’s management committee, showcased the concrete results of JEL’s work within Luxembourg’s educational landscape.

The evening concluded with an inspiring keynote from Georges Bock, serial entrepreneur and innovation enthusiast, who shared his vision of entrepreneurial leadership and the challenges facing the next generation of entrepreneurs.

The event also featured the unveiling of JEL’s new visual identity, reflecting a renewed ambition and strategic alignment with JA Europe. “This new identity embodies our dynamism and our commitment to inspiring the next generation of bold entrepreneurs, ready to turn their ideas into concrete action,” said Sven Baltes, Director of JEL. The full rebranding will be rolled out for the 2025/2026 school year.

Patrick Wies, President of JEL, closed the event with an enthusiastic outlook toward a promising future alongside a committed and passionate team.

“We are ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow by continuing to inspire and support young people in becoming the leaders of the future. This success is the result of a collective effort, and I warmly thank everyone who makes this mission possible,” he stated.
He extended heartfelt thanks to former presidents Norbert Friob, Yves Elsen, and Charles Denotte, the Board of Directors, and all stakeholders who support JEL on a daily basis.

The entire organization now looks ahead with excitement to a bright future, driven by innovative and ambitious projects currently in development, which it is preparing to bring to life in collaboration with key players across the ecosystem.