It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Michael Bray, former Chair and Emeritus Chair of JA Europe, Emeritus Governor of JA Worldwide, and a cherished friend to our community. Michael was more than a leader—he was a guiding presence who brought wisdom, kindness, and determination to every role he held within JA. His impact on our organization, and on the lives of countless young Europeans, will be remembered for generations.
Michael’s journey with JA began in 2002, when he joined the JA Europe Board. Over the next 13 years, he provided steady guidance and governance, helping to expand JA’s reach and strengthen its voice across the region. Between 2011 and 2013, he served as Chair of JA Europe, where his vision and leadership united the community and shaped the organisation’s governance. In 2023, he was named Emeritus Chair of JA Europe, continuing to share advice, ideas, and support for new projects until his final days.
His contributions extended well beyond Europe. From 2012, Michael joined the JA Worldwide Board of Governors, bringing his expertise to the global stage. In 2020, he was honored as one of the first Emeritus Governors, recognizing his outstanding dedication. In total, Michael gave 13 years of service to JA Europe and 13 years to JA Worldwide—a rare and extraordinary legacy of leadership that bridged continents and generations.
Laurence Morvan, Chair of JA Europe and Chief of Staff to Accenture Europe, Middle East and Africa CEO, shared:
“Michael was incredibly committed to the JA worldwide network and to JA Europe in particular. Many years after stepping down as Chair of JA Europe, he would still continue to contribute advice, ideas, and shape new projects. He was a relentless leader with an unwavering passion for instilling youth with an entrepreneurial spirit, and we at JA Europe are deeply thankful for his legacy.”
Francesco Vanni d’Archirafi, JA Worldwide Emeritus Board Member, former JA Worldwide Board Chair, and Emeritus Chair and former Chair of the JA Europe Board of Directors, shared his reaction to the news of Michael’s passing. “Michael was not only a good friend, but also my partner in many ventures, a trusted advisor, and someone who always took the time to listen. Over the nearly three decades we served together on the boards of both JA Europe and JA Worldwide—during which he was the architect of the current governance model and structure of JA Worldwide—I came to deeply admire his wisdom, his fairness, and his unwavering sense of purpose. He brought clarity and perspective to every discussion, earning the respect of everyone around the table. His legacy is measured not only in the growth and strength of JA, but also in the countless lives of young people he helped shape through his leadership and belief in our mission. He will be missed.”
Karen Reddington, Chair of the JA Worldwide Board of Governors and a long-time colleague of Michael’s, agreed: “Michael embodied the very best of what it means to be a leader—principled, visionary, and compassionate. He never lost sight of why we do this work: to give young people everywhere the skillset and mindset to thrive. We are profoundly grateful for his years of service and for the example he set for all of us.”
Asheesh Advani, CEO of JA Worldwide, reflected that Michael’s presence on our board was felt not only in the strategies and systems of governance he helped shape but also in the way he carried himself with warmth, humility, and a genuine desire to build a brighter future for young people everywhere. “Michael was more than a board member; he was a true partner in our mission. His wisdom sharpened our strategy and governance, his generosity fueled our growth, and his kindness inspired everyone who had the privilege of working with him. We will miss him deeply, but his legacy lives on in the millions of young people whose futures he helped shape.”
Salvatore Nigro, CEO of JA Europe, reflected:
“As Chair and Chair Emeritus Michael has been instrumental to create the architecture of the organisation, bringing the whole community together. His vision continues to inspire the next generation of Europeans.”
Caroline Jenner, Chief Operating Officer of JA Worldwide and former CEO of JA Europe, who started her tenure at JA Europe the same time Michael did, weighed in on her time with him: “I feel so privileged to have had the chance to work closely with Michael, and I learned so much from him. The kindest gentleman in the world, he was also someone who always brought all his energy, humor, expertise to his leadership roles at JA. He will be sorely missed.”
Michael Bray was more than a leader; he was a mentor, a supporter, and a constant source of encouragement. His guidance shaped not only the governance and growth of JA Europe, but also the culture of solidarity and collaboration that defines our network today.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Michael’s family, colleagues, and friends. His legacy lives on in the millions of young people across Europe and the world who have been empowered through JA’s mission—an impact that will continue for generations.
