This was previously published in our September 2025 issue.
In Anaheim, California thousands of students gathered for the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National leadership conference this summer. Among them were three students from Emmaus High School. Competing in different events, they joined the nations best and brightest in a four day convention, to test their skills, learn information, and gain experience for the future.
For EHS students it was both a competition and a chance to grow. There are many students who participate in FBLA, but not many students qualify for nationals. At EHS there were over 10 students who qualified, but only three students decided to go to nationals.
Senior Rio Johnson, Vice president of FBLA club has been to nationals before. This summer, he returned and got to compete in the topic of risk management insurance.
“I joined FBLA because I’ve always had an interest in business, and I thought that it was a good platform for me to explore that interest and to meet new people as well,” Johnson said.
Senior Dyia Shah, President of the FBLA club at EHS also went to nationals and competed in business ethics. She has a different perspective and credits the club for building her confidence in public speaking.
“I joined FBLA right for public speaking, and I think my public speaking has definitely improved,” Shah said.
FBLA not only helps students learn finance and business, but it also helps students work on other skills that are needed for their future.
At the convention, students were able to connect with others, share ideas, and learn about opportunities.
“I learned about the new AP personal finance course,” Shah said. “It’s very much a networking opportunity and you make some good connections.”
Each Student gets to choose what topic they want to learn about and compete in for year.
“I thought [the risk management topic] could be used in different aspects, not even just pertaining to business, but just in anything,” Johnson said. “It was just good to get ideas out there and learn different things.”
Junior Justin Chan also found the experience valuable and got to compete in Spreadsheet applications. He joined FBLA to learn more about the business world and additionally discovered more about himself.
“I think I learned a lot about myself and what helped me to prepare for my event and what helped me to succeed.” Chan said.
For students at EHS nationals wasn’t just about the ranking or getting an award. It was about preparing and building experience to help them in the future. Whether it was public speaking, exploring new topics, or discovering more about themselves, each student walked away learning a new skill that was more than just business.
“It’s a lot of fun,” Chan said. “It’s a very different experience, and it’s something that if you’re a little interested in, then definitely give it a try.”
