By Nidhi Vasani
DECA is a worldwide not-for-profit organization that has been ‘preparing emerging leaders’ for their futures since its founding 70 years ago. Those who partake dedicate much of their time studying case study performance indicators and business-oriented multiple choice questions - often spending more time than they do on homework for an actual course. Those who don’t always ask the same question: Why voluntarily join a club that takes so much work? Some say it’s the opportunity to network with students who share interests, while others just want to learn more about business. For many, it gives a chance to improve public speaking skills, and the rest benefit from the constant need to manage your time well. Regardless of the motivation, each participant has an unforgettable experience.
DECA has seen over 215,000 members, belonging to nearly 3500 chapters - competing from North and South America, Asia and Europe. Clusters range from hospitality and marketing to entrepreneurship and finance. The stock market game and weekly business challenges are examples of a few of the several other competitive events that students from grades nine to twelve can get involved in.
With a population of over 100 members, The Woodlands is home to one of the largest and most successful chapters in Peel. As a group of competitors that has grown to dominate at regional, provincial and international competitions, there is a lot to be proud of.
Entering North Park Secondary School on November 17th, 2018 for the preliminary event, each student was undoubtedly wondering if they had studied the right content - so tirelessly - to tackle the upcoming presentation, and whether it would be enough to be called up onto the stage. Between individuals, teams and principles call times as well as awards ceremonies, the venue was in constant chaos.
During all three ceremonies, the announcer began: “And from The Woodlands…” so often that nobody was surprised when the results revealed that our chapter as a whole won 100 ribbons and 32 medals that day. Furthermore, a large number of the DECA Woodlands participants will continue to compete at Ontario provincials in downtown Toronto.
In past years, The Woodlands has sent over 50 students to the International Career Development Conference (Worldwide competition), and the outlook this year is that we’ll be more successful than ever. Be sure to join the legacy of DECA Woodlands next year if you haven’t already; who knows, you might be the next person to bring home a first place glass trophy. Are you #ReadyForIt?
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