When you first join the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA), it’s easy to look around and feel like everyone already knows their place. Some thrive in the show ring, others lead in their state associations, and a few seem to have it all figured out. But here’s the truth: everyone starts somewhere, and every journey looks a little different. 

What makes the NJAA special isn’t that everyone follows the same path, it’s that each member’s journey is uniquely their own. Some find their spark in the show ring, others behind a microphone, and many simply by saying “yes” when an opportunity comes along. The NJAA gives you space to figure it out: to try, to fail, to learn and grow into the person you’re meant to be. 

Real leadership doesn’t always come with a title. It shows up quietly, when you help someone rinse a calf in the morning, share a blower, or cheer for a friend who finally nails their speech. Those small moments don’t just build leaders; they build community. 

You’ll also face moments that push you outside your comfort zone. You might not always feel ready or qualified, but that’s where growth happens. Every challenge builds resilience, perspective and confidence in ways you might not expect. 

For me, that moment of “finding my place” came in 2018, when Wisconsin and Illinois hosted the National Junior Angus Show (NJAS) in Madison. I had only attended my first NJAS the year before and was hesitant to volunteer for anything. As an only child just getting started as an Angus junior, my parents and I had no idea what it took to help run an event of that scale. 

Thankfully, I had already begun getting involved with the Wisconsin Junior Angus Association in 2016. That early involvement gave me the chance to attend planning meetings and meet incredible families who became mentors. That same year, Wisconsin and Illinois hosted Mini-LEAD — a smaller version of the LEAD Conference that brings state members together to learn about the Angus industry and leadership opportunities. (Your state should host one — and invite me!) 

A few Wisconsin advisors personally encouraged me to attend, and I’m glad they did. Sometimes, we all need that extra push, whether it’s an invitation or someone simply believing in us. At Mini-LEAD, I met friends who are still some of my best today. That weekend helped me feel comfortable getting more involved, from participating in contests to helping plan Junior Nationals. 

It’s not always easy to find your place in a new group, but with a little encouragement, you can. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to get involved, this is it.

Like many of you, the livestock industry has always been where I feel most at home. I had great friends in high school, but the strongest connections I’ve made are with people who share my same passions and experiences. Through the NJAA, I’ve also met the kind of people I want to be like, those who lift others up, lead with kindness and know who they are. 

So, take a moment to think about what you want to accomplish in the next year,  or even the next five. Write your goals down, and map out how you’ll get there. If self-improvement is part of that plan, get involved in the NJAA. Attend meetings, run for an office, try a contest you’ve never done before, and bring along someone who’s just getting started. 

The best version of yourself comes from taking chances and helping others do the same. No matter where your path begins, whether it’s at Mini-LEAD, in the show ring or at your first state meeting,  there’s a place for you in the NJAA. You just have to find it.