Submitted Photo Jadyn Sandy.

The Future Business Leaders of America National Leadership Conference was held June 29-July 2 in San Antonio, Texas. More than 9,500 high school students from across the United States and abroad attended the conference to enhance their leadership skills, expand their networks and participate in more than 70 business and business related competencies events.

Jadyn Sandy from Velva High School received national recognition at the FBLA Awards of Excellence Program on July 2. Sandy competed in Business Plan and brought home eighth place. This event recognizes FBLA members who demonstrate an understanding and mastery of the process required to develop and implement a new business venture.

Sandy’s business, Star City Candle Co. LLC, designed and manufactured beeswax candles that are all natural, produce no byproducts, and are environmentally safe and friendly. The uniqueness of the business is that beeswax candles are hypoallergenic and beneficial for those with environmental allergies, sensitivities, and asthma. Beeswax candles also improve air quality. Sandy prepared a written report and presentation.

Sandy said, “The conference was very enjoyable and inspiring. Overall, preparing this business plan and being in FBLA has taught me so much. Just the experience that came with competing on a national level is enough! It has taught me that, yes, a freshman from a small town in North Dakota can make a difference. All of the hard work you put in really does pay off!”

The award was part of a comprehensive national competitive events program sponsored by FBLA-PBL that recognizes and rewards excellence in a broad range of business and career related areas.