California to Host FBLA National Leadership Conference

News Summary

FBLA clubs from Champaign Central and Centennial high schools are preparing to attend the National Leadership Conference in California in August 2025. This event will gather young business leaders from across the nation to showcase their skills in various competitive events. Students are engaged in preparations for competitions like entrepreneurship and social media campaigns, emphasizing personal growth and networking opportunities. Fundraising efforts are underway to support travel expenses, highlighting the importance of this experience in their leadership journey.

California to Host Future Business Leaders of America Conference

Champaign, Illinois – FBLA clubs from Champaign Central and Centennial high schools are set to attend the National Leadership Conference in California at the end of August 2025. This conference will bring together young leaders from around the country to showcase their skills in business and marketing through various competitive events.

Teachers from Central High School, Eric Fagerlin and Farrah Tuttle, will accompany Eric Springer from Centennial High School to this prestigious event. The teachers emphasize that while not all FBLA members participate in competitions, those who do often report significant personal growth and a valuable experience overall.

A variety of students from the Champaign area are gearing up to compete in specific events. Nathalee Abad from Centennial High School will participate in a roleplay event centered on sports and entertainment management. Abad has been diligently preparing using Quizlet as a study tool to navigate the scenarios she may face during the competition.

Another competitor, Priyam Banerjee from Centennial, is readying for an entrepreneurship roleplay event that demands quick thinking and adaptability. Participants in this contest must swiftly respond to a prompt and present their ideas effectively. Banerjee’s preparation included reviewing feedback from past competitions and watching instructional videos to strengthen her performance skills.

Central High School students Matthew Philip and Sohum Gurrapu are collaborating on a group presentation that involves working with a real business in India, highlighting the international aspect of their studies. Meanwhile, Safa Thameem and Kennedy Borden from Centennial have created a “Public Service Announcement” video focusing on healthy workplace habits, which previously earned them fourth place at the state competition.

Additionally, Hannah Libman and Aanya Rangaiahgari from Centennial are engaged in developing a social media campaign to promote a nonprofit organization. The duo has been practicing with local business leaders and their advisers to refine their marketing strategies.

In anticipation of the conference, students express enthusiasm about the networking opportunities available, which will allow them to connect with peers from across the nation. Sohum Gurrapu shared his excitement about traveling beyond Illinois and the diverse experiences that the conference promises. Aanya Rangaiahgari, who previously achieved a top-ten finish at the conference, is looking forward to the awards show this year with great eagerness.

The group has been actively fundraising to offset travel expenses, estimated at around $1,500 per member. They are also seeking sponsorship from local businesses to support their journey. This financial commitment underlines the importance of the conference experience as they prepare to gain insights and make valuable connections.

Following the conclusion of the conference, the teachers are already planning future opportunities for the FBLA clubs, ensuring that students continue to develop their leadership and business skills. As the event approaches, anticipation builds among the students, promising a memorable adventure and a platform for personal and professional growth in the world of business.

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