AJSA Connection

from the Register, March 2025

by American Simmental Publication, Inc

ASA's Leading Breeders

Developing leaders through friendship, networking, and communication skills!

by Cecillia Newby

“It’s okay, Cecillia, stand up, dust yourself off, and grab ahold of the halter.” These words are some of the earliest memories I have with my father. I was seven years old and taking on the largest challenge I had ever faced—breaking my bucket calf to lead. Looking back now, this doesn’t seem like such a challenge, but it seemed impossible for the three-foot-eight girl in her t-shirt, athletic shorts, and mud boots.

We all face challenges, whether breaking a bucket calf to lead, managing our operations, or balancing the multiple aspects of our lives. However, being part of the beef industry and the American Junior Simmental Association has taught me how to step up when things are challenging and how to be a leader.

During my time in the AJSA, I witnessed many leaders who served on the board and in the barns, and when I was younger, I believed that you needed a specific title to be considered a leader. However, over time, I discovered leadership doesn’t require a title or position. Instead, it focuses on commitment, resilience, and creativity.

These characteristics show strength and passion for the beef industry, which members of this Association display daily. Producers consistently demonstrate resilience during difficult times, are committed to their work, and utilize creativity to solve problems that come across their path. These characteristics and many more highlight each leader’s strengths that they bring to the table.

Through my time in the AJSA, I have built many friendships with others who share my passions. These friendships have shown me how everyone uses their strengths to lead in their own lives. Whether it is leading their state association or their family operation, everyone has a unique way of using their strengths to make a difference.

Leaders are all around us. They take the opportunities that life throws at them, no matter their challenges. Leaders focus on what makes them unique and how to use their strengths to strive. We can learn to embrace our challenges and take life by the halter. All we have to do is lead. .