Students from Irmo High School recently joined more than 9,000 passionate young leaders in Washington, D.C., for the 2026 Family, Career and Community Leaders of America National Leadership Conference. Organizers say the weeklong event, held from July 6-11, provided a  platform for students to expand their horizons, hone essential life skills and make a lasting impact.

Throughout the conference, attendees from Irmo High participated in rigorous workshops focused on employability, college planning and leadership development. The Irmo High FCCLA chapter distinguished itself on the national stage by earning silver medals in the competitive STAR events for “Promote and Publicize FCCLA” and “Chapter in Review.”

Serafina Koroma, a three-year member of the chapter and the 2025-26 Irmo chapter president, described the experience as a turning point.

“Being part of FCCLA has been life-changing,” said Koroma. “Improving my communication skills and participating in community service activities has helped prepare me for college and my future career.”

The conference also highlighted the leadership of Robert Lawrence, who currently serves on the South Carolina FCCLA leadership team as a state officer.

“I am truly appreciative of the district’s support as I serve as a state officer this year,” Lawrence said.

Irmo High School student achievements

• Asiyah Carter, Gabrielle Harris and Makenzie Harris — Silver medalists (Chapter in Review portfolio)
• Serafina Koroma — Silver medalist (Teach & Train)
• Robert Lawrence, FCCLA state officer, served as vice president of competitive events

The cornerstone of the NLC, the STAR events, challenged students to apply their knowledge through real-world projects. With more than 5,500 participants competing in over 30 categories, the competition was intense. These events recognized student achievement and empowered competitors to become advocates for positive change within their communities.