Junior Black Achievement Awards empowering Black youth and their families

Candace Knoll is the Founder and President of the Junior Black Achievement Awards (JrBAA) Society, established in 2022. This non-profit organization is dedicated to empowering Black youth and their families by providing training, recognition, and access to education.

Cathy Cena – Local Journalism Initiative

Under Candace's leadership, JrBAA offers various educational workshops and events aimed at uniting the community and fostering youth advancement. The society's programs focus on intergenerational training and mentorship, promoting a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity and heritage. They cover areas such as communication and leadership skills, health and wellness, financial literacy, community activism, and civic engagement. Additionally, JrBAA provides scholarships to support Black youth pursuing post-secondary education.

One of the organization's signature events is the Annual Jr. Black Achievement Awards Educational Weekend Retreat, which features a trades panel and a speech competition. This retreat offers participants valuable opportunities to develop their skills and connect with mentors. The society also hosts an annual awards ceremony to recognize and celebrate the achievements and successes of Black youth in the community.

Candace's commitment to youth empowerment and community service has been widely recognized. In November 2024, she was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her significant contributions to her community and country.

Beyond her role with JrBAA, Candace has an extensive background in communications and public speaking. She is a life member of International Training in Communication (ITC), formerly International Toastmistress Clubs, and has served as a Pacific Northwest Region Past President. In 2013, she placed third in the International Speech Competition. Candace is also a certified trainer of the POWERtalk Public Speaking "Short Course" and is certified in basic parliamentary procedures.

Her dedication to education and community involvement led her to run for a trustee position in School District 43 (SD43) during the 2025 by-election. Candace's campaign emphasized the importance of providing diverse, high-quality education to all students, reflecting her ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive educational environments.

Through her leadership with the Junior Black Achievement Awards Society and her extensive community involvement, Candace Knoll continues to make a profound impact on empowering Black youth and advocating for educational excellence.