Over 500 of Wyoming’s high school students participated in the Wyoming Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference held at UW’s College of Business from March 15 -17.
The FBLA mission is to prepare students for a future by enhancing their skills, broadening their networks and providing a community to thrive in.
“FBLA provides leadership skills, communication skills and the ability to put their best foot forward. These skills are valuable as they enter life and the many challenges they will face,” said Buffalo High School advisor Michelle Dahlberg.
Students from around the state received the opportunity to listen to keynote speakers, attend business workshops and participate in business related competitions.
“Students learn to present, use current knowledge to think creatively and to communicate professionally,” said Dahlberg.
Workshops included business ethics, personal finance and presentation skills.
“My favorite workshop I got to attend was about presentation skills. It helped build my confidence and get me prepared for public speaking,” said senior FBLA student member Jack Poyer.
Along with workshops, keynote speakers spoke on strategies, resilience and power.
“I empower people to overcome adversities by sharing practical strategies to develop resilience and mental strength,” said keynote speaker Hoan Do.
Students competed for cash awards and the opportunity to represent Wyoming at the National FBLA Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, June 27-30.
“I hope I get to go to nationals because that can help me get scholarships and job opportunities for the future,” said senior FBLA student member Hannah Singh.
More than 200 students get to move on to the winners camp in Douglas, Wyoming, on May 3.
The winners’ camp brings students from across the state to prepare and network before moving on to nationals as a state chapter.
“The winners’ camp to me is a time to meet everyone who you are going to nationals with and make those connections,” said Singh.
Along with presentations and workshops, students also got to experience UW campus life through tours and game nights with fellow members.
“I love being able to not only meet new friends, but to have fun after working hard all day,” said junior FBLA student member Cassidy Holman.
