YJA conventions are organized and hosted every two years for over 600 Jain youths, aged 14–29, from across the globe. Each convention is organized by a team of 30-35 individuals – students and young professionals – from across North America. The goal of each convention is to create a space for Jain youth to be inspired: it is a unique opportunity for us to explore and deepen our understanding of our faith by learning from our peers, leaders in our community, and a diverse range of guest speakers.
YJA conventions are divided into three main tracks:
- High School
- College
- Jain Networking Forum (JNF) (ages 21-29)
Attendees are able to select their track based on their age and current status in school, ensuring they have access to sessions and activities most relevant to them. Each convention’s Daytime Programming and Social events tie together the overall theme, and the unique experiences and memories of convention result in lifelong friendships and communities. By interacting with attendees of all ages, youth get to see how Jainism is a source of support and guidance in various phases of their life.
Daytime Programming sessions for youth are conducted by speakers both from within and outside the Jain
community, keeping Jainism and its values alive in the hearts and minds of youth while also opening
them up to new perspectives. We are also honored to have monks, nuns, and scholars, many who make
the journey from India, speak at our conventions. We plan a diverse range of sessions suitable for
those attending their first convention as well as those attending their sixth.
Each attendee’s registration fee includes registration for the convention, hotel accommodations, and
all activities. Delicious Jain and vegan food is served during the convention, including a variety
of cuisines from Mexican to Italian to Indian. No onions, potatoes, garlic, root vegetables, meats,
or animal byproducts are distributed or used to prepare the meals. Additionally, we have a 24/7 “Hospitality
Suite” where youth can stop by to grab a light, healthy snack between sessions or events.
JNF programming further tailors the convention experience, aiming to foster professional and relationship development. All JNF programming allows attendees the opportunity to meet a variety of individuals through interactive sessions and unique social events, while creating lasting connections with individuals who are successful in a variety of careers.
For more information on our biennial conventions, please e-mail [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you at our next YJA convention!
| Year | Convention | City | Theme |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1994 | First | Chicago, IL | Region and Culture: Learning For Tomorrow |
| 1996 | Second | San Francisco, CA | Jainism: Integrating Philosophy & Practice |
| 1998 | Third | Houston, TX | Jainism: Back to Basics |
| 2000 | Fourth | Los Angeles, CA | Four Day's Journey into The Self |
| 2002 | Fifth | Mahwah, NJ | Walking the Path of Jainism |
| 2004 | Sixth | Santa Clara, CA | YJAin? To See, To Know, To Realize |
| 2006 | Seventh | Stamford, CT | Jain Evolution: Making Our Life Our Message |
| 2008 | Eight | Lincolnshire, IL | Generation Jain: Jainism Your Way |
| 2010 | Ninth | New Brunswick, NJ | Inspire. Connect. Do the Jain Thing. |
| 2012 | Tenth | Tampa, FL | iJain: Evolution of a Mind |
| 2014 | Eleventh | Arlington, VA | Young Jains: Today’s Learners, Tomorrow’s Leaders |
| 2016 | Twelfth | Los Angeles, CA | Young Jains: Agents of Change |