By Krishiv Shah
Charlotte, NC – From November 15–17, 2024, I had the privilege of joining over 2,500 DECA members in Charlotte, NC, for the DECA Power Trip, an event that left a lasting impression on my high school journey. As a recently elected Executive Vice President of the New York DECA State Officer Executive Team, this experience deepened my appreciation for DECA and its ability to connect, inspire, and empower student leaders.
The weekend was a whirlwind of opportunities to build professional skills, enhance our understanding of business, and foster relationships with like-minded individuals. We attended workshops that honed essential networking skills, a cornerstone of success in any field. One of the highlights was hearing from the International DECA Board, specifically North Atlantic Region Vice President Suraj Patel and High School Division President Sarah Sonny. Their journeys and insights into leadership offered valuable guidance and motivation for aspiring leaders like me.
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(Photo provided by author)
Being surrounded by a diverse group of 2,500+ DECA members allowed me to connect with peers from various backgrounds, sharing stories of overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities. As an Indian American, I often bring a unique lens to discussions about leadership, blending the collectivist ideals of my heritage with the competitive spirit of American culture. At Power Trip, I saw firsthand how this blend enriches my approach to problem-solving, teamwork, and initiative. DECA is an organization that encapsulates diverse perspectives and backgrounds, with 11.7% of the organization being Asian American, amongst over 258,000+ members and 3,900+ high school chapters.
DECA Inc. hosted a special “DECA After Dark” night on November 16, where DECA members convened at the NASCAR Hall of Fame to network, explore the gems of Charlotte, and ultimately feel a sense of togetherness within the organization.
If you’re a high school student interested in joining DECA and your school doesn’t already have a chapter, don’t hesitate to reach out to [email protected]. DECA has been a life-changing opportunity for me, and I hope you are able to experience it too.
(Krishiv Shah, the founder and submission coordinator of Kaleidoscope, is an Indian-American senior at Syosset High School with aspirations to pursue a degree in South Asian Studies and Business.)
