FBLA District Conference shapes students’ futures

By: Bre Crockett, Contributing Writer

​Centralia High School FBLA President and District 6 Co-President Elijah Hill and Vice President of Communications Amy Pendergrast record the classroom scene for their public service announcement for districts.

FBLA's District Leadership Conference is so much more than just a conference.

​Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) District Leadership Conference (DLC) is an exciting and enriching event that brings together students from various chapters to showcase their skills, knowledge and leadership abilities.

​To go into districts, students must select a topic they would like to participate in and study it. From there, depending on the category the topic is in, they take an online test, make a presentation or even both. For topics that require a presentation, students create a one over that topic and present it to the head FBLA adviser Mr. Andrew Reynolds, community members and lastly, the judges at district level. The diverse categories available, including objective events, performance-based events and production events, offer students a spectrum of choices to tailor their experience. 

While the overarching aim of districts is to progress to the state level, the conference offers a multitude of reasons to embrace the experience. The skills cultivated throughout the process extend beyond the conference itself. As Reynolds emphasizes, “The confidence students can gain from presenting in front of me and judges can make a huge difference in their confidence and future job prospects.” Additionally, excelling at district and state conferences adds an exceptional touch to one's resume, enhancing future career opportunities.

In her third year of being an FBLA member, Secretary Bethany Raps shares her motivation for participating in districts, discussing the sense of accomplishment derived from dedicating time to a project and reaping the rewards. She reflects on the challenges posed by the conference, and acknowledges its role in her business skills crucial for her future. Raps recognizes the potential impact on her career choices, stating, “It helps me get to know myself better and what I like to do, and it could also help me pick my future job.”

The FBLA DLC is much more than a presentation, it is an experience that molds students into confident leaders and helps prepare them for success. Participants emerge not only with awards, but also with a wealth of skills, knowledge and the perseverance needed for future success.