Contributed by Mahira Shaik | Al-Falah School DECA, India
As the founder and president of the first-ever DECA chapter in India and the Southeast Asian Region, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to start a DECA chapter in a new country. It took me four months to convince my school's administration and fellow students that establishing a DECA chapter in India is possible! But with perseverance, I was able to make it happen. Starting a DECA chapter in a new country requires dedication, hard work and perseverance. Here are three key ideas to remember:
1. Community Engagement
Engage your members in DECA activities throughout the year using DECA’s Chapter Campaigns as your guide! These campaigns are perfect for developing your chapter’s program of leadership and allow your chapter to gain the recognition it deserves. There are great awards for DECA chapters that attain recognition through DECA’s Chapter Campaigns, including the opportunity to earn a certificate, pennant, plaque, flag and even two allocations to attend the Thrive Academy at DECA’s International Career Development Conference.
2. Social Media Strategy
Using the social media marketing simulation Mimic Social, manage a fictitious company’s weekly social media ad budget, schedule and promote content, target specific audiences and analyze your success through multiple rounds of the simulation. This will help you develop valuable skills for the workforce and promote your DECA chapter to a wider audience.
3. Perseverance
Starting a DECA chapter in a new country can be challenging, but perseverance has to become your best friend. Keep pushing forward, even when faced with obstacles. Believe in yourself and your vision and don't give up. Starting a DECA chapter in a new country requires creativity, innovation and leadership. But with the right mindset and approach, it is possible to establish a successful chapter that can positively impact your school and community.
