In late June 2025, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) hosted its National Leadership Conference (NLC) in Anaheim, California, drawing more than 15,000 passionate competitors from across the nation. Held June 29–July 1 at the Anaheim Convention Center, the NLC features a wide variety of business‑related competitive events, professional development workshops, exhibits, and networking opportunities for FBLA members at the middle school and high school levels.
What Is the FBLA National Leadership Conference?
At NLC, students compete in individual and team events designed around real‑world business and leadership scenarios. Events include objective tests, case studies, presentations, and role‑play exercises. Many of the high‑school level events involve online objective tests taken onsite during the conference, which assess students’ understanding of topics such as business ethics, leadership, management, public policy, and strategy.
Competitive events like Public Policy & Advocacy (soon to be known as Public Administration & Management) and Organizational Leadership are structured as objective tests under timed conditions. Typically, they are 50–60 minute multiple‑choice exams delivered onsite during the NLC, with state qualifying rounds required earlier in the year.
🏅 Outstanding Individual Achievements
Charles Taggi – Public Policy & Advocacy
Charles represented the chapter in the highly competitive Public Policy & Advocacy event, which tests knowledge of how public policy is formed, advocacy strategies, stakeholder analysis, and ethical governance. In that contest, Charles delivered an outstanding objective‑test performance, earning 2nd place in the nation. This achievement is all the more impressive given the breadth of knowledge required—from lawmaking processes to persuasive communication techniques.
Matteo Cademartori – Organizational Leadership
Matteo competed in Organizational Leadership, an individual event designed to assess understanding of leadership theories, organizational structures, team dynamics, decision‑making, and change management. He tackled the rigorous objective exam under timed conditions and demonstrated strong mastery of leadership fundamentals and business decision skills.
Both students earned their spots at NLC through prior success at regional and state-level competition. In states, top finishers in events like Public Policy & Advocacy and Organizational Leadership from FBLA chapters across Pennsylvania advance to the national level. In Anaheim, Charles’s 2nd-place finish placed him in the national spotlight, while Matteo’s participation showcased his leadership acumen on a national stage.
Why These Events Matter
Objective Testing at the National Stage: Both events require focus, accurate knowledge, and time management. The fact that Charles and Matteo advanced through chapter, regional, and state levels to qualify for NLC speaks to their dedication and preparation.
Professional Growth Opportunities: Beyond testing, the National Leadership Conference immerses students in a vibrant environment of workshops, keynote speakers, and networking, helping them think about career pathways and leadership in business and public service.
Award Presentation:
