On October 13, a thousand student leaders from across the Bay Area gathered at El Camino High School for the CADA Area B Student Conference. The campus was buzzing with excitement as schools arrived, checked in, and got ready to spend the day learning, connecting, and growing “around the campfire.”
Camping is very important to my family and my own school’s ASB program. It is when we are sitting around the campfire, that I feel that we come together as a group and really invest in each other as people. This concept of deepening our human connection really drove the planning behind our conference.
The day kicked off with a high-energy warm-up, setting the tone for a day of collaboration and creativity. Students rotated through a variety of interactive workshops, each designed to spark new ideas they could bring back to their own campuses.
Workshop Highlights
Participants explored a wide range of topics that encouraged curiosity, inclusivity, and innovation in leadership.
“AI in Schools” showed how technology can support learning and student voice.
“Love & Leadership” challenged students to lead with empathy and heart.
“Reel Talk Rizz” offered tips on creating fun, effective videos to promote school events.
“Awareness Trail Map with Clubs” helped students design creative awareness campaigns together.
“One Step at a Time” reminded leaders that lasting change starts with small, consistent actions.
Other sessions like Curiosity Over Comfort, Student Store: Service & Safe Spaces, and The Little Things emphasized the power of teamwork, wellness, and daily acts of kindness that build school culture.
Keynote Speaker: Laymon Hicks
The conference’s keynote speaker, Laymon Hicks, delivered a powerful message that resonated deeply with everyone in the gym. His talk centered on personal connection—reminding students that “someone needs you.” Through storytelling and humor, Laymon inspired attendees to see their value, support one another, and use their leadership to make others feel seen and cared for.
Closing the Day
After a full morning of rotations, students came together for lunch and networking in the big gym, sharing what they learned and celebrating the spirit of the day. Students danced to the DJ, played games, and did crafts at various booths.
I am so thankful to the incredible Area B Council and assistant coordinator Francis Rojas, El Camino High School and advisor Rachel McDonald, to all Area B advisors and students who helped make the conference possible.
The CADA Bay Area Student Conference truly lived up to its theme—leaders left feeling connected, inspired, and ready to ignite their leadership back home.