Contributed by Joanna Quezada | Mustang High School DECA, OK
Mustang High School DECA hosted its first workshop of the school year with a special guest, Akash Patel, founder of the Happy World Foundation and chairman of the United Nations Association of the United States of America, renowned for his innovative teaching methods worldwide.
The workshop aimed to equip Mustang DECA members with essential skills for both professional settings and DECA competitive events. Focusing on communication, public speaking and leadership, Mr. Patel shared his expertise and real-world experiences, emphasizing their relevance in the workforce.
In addition to discussions, the workshop featured interactive activities in small groups. Participants engaged in team-building exercises and practiced critical thinking skills.
Reflecting on the event, DECA member Taytum Migneault described it as "very educational and engaging," while Shreya Shibu found it "entertaining with fun activities."
The workshop included three main activities:
- "Card Pieces," where members negotiated to complete sets of cards, enhancing their communication and networking skills.
- A creative sales pitch challenge, where teams devised pitches using random target markets and words, fostering public speaking abilities.
- A problem-solving exercise, where members tackled business challenges, developing leadership strategies.
With 35 enthusiastic attendees, the workshop strengthened members' skills and fostered camaraderie and a sense of unity within Mustang High School DECA. This innovative and creative event highlights the chapter's dedication to growth and active participation, further enriching the school’s dynamic culture. Mustang High School DECA looks forward to hosting more events in the future.
