The National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) has members across the United States, young cattlemen and women dedicated to furthering The Business Breed for generations to come. 

For KayLee Langford, her choice to get involved in the organization started with a fellow NJAA member who Langford names as a mentor, Kathryn Coleman.

“She’s the one who really sparked my interest in the association and encouraged me to get more involved,” she says. “Her guidance has made a huge difference in my journey.”

Since then, it’s evident Langford, from Breckenridge, Texas, jumped in headfirst, attending her first National Junior Angus Show (NJAS) in 2018. With a combination of hard work and support, Langford walked out of the show ring at the 2025 show in Tulsa with the coveted title of champion owned heifer.

Langford says it was her first time winning a show of that caliber, which was a lifelong dream of hers. 

“What made it even more special was getting to experience it surrounded by some of my favorite people who have supported me every step of the way,” she says.

And truly, that’s what Langford loves so much about being a part of the Angus family. Buckles tarnish, but the community lasts forever. Within the NJAA, she says she has found friendships, support and encouragement that feels like one big family always cheering her on.

Langford has found this community at various NJAA events both in and out of the show ring. She attended the 2023 Leaders Engaged in Angus Development (LEAD) conference in Modesto, which she says was an unforgettable experience.

“I loved meeting members from across the county and growing my leadership skills while learning more about the industry I care so deeply about,” Langford shares.

Experiences in the NJAA have also given her a platform to advocate for issues she truly cares about. Langford says that is one of the reasons why her favorite contest to participate in at the NJAS is the public speaking contest.

“It’s given me the opportunity to advocate for mental health awareness, which is something I’m incredibly passionate about — especially in the agriculture community,” Langford says.

Looking to the future, Langford plans to stay in the Lone Star State and attend Tarleton State University. She plans to use her studies to become a physical therapist, with a focus on caring for the physical and mental health of America’s farmers and ranchers. 

As she puts it, Langford wants to help ranchers take care of themselves so they can keep doing what they love: feeding the world. 

As she gets ready to enter the last few years of her NJAA career, Langford has some advice for those just getting into the organization.

“Take advantage of every opportunity, big or small, and remember that you’re never too cool to have fun,” she says. “Every experience can teach you something and help you grow.”