Broward 4-H youth place at State Events

Broward 4-H youth rose to the challenges posed by COVID-19. A pandemic did not stop them from showcasing their skills and talents at this year’s competitive events. And their hard work paid off! Several Broward 4-H youth placed at the 2020 Florida 4-H State Competitive Events!

Virtual events

In March Broward 4-H hosted its annual Broward 4-H Community Fair. Then, COVID-19 struck. The Fair went virtual. Traditionally, youth give demonstrations, illustrated talks, and showcase their talents in front of a live audience, including judges. However, due to physical distancing, Broward 4-H youth recorded themselves giving these presentations. Parents and siblings became camera operators. The audience was viewing these youth on a screen. Instead of a time of defeat, these youth saw it as an opportunity to grow. Volunteer judges similarly met the challenge to score these youth online. We are grateful for their commitment to our youth.

State events

After receiving blue ribbon scores, these youth entered the State Event. Florida 4-H hosts an annual

Young man playing a guitar — Daniel won first place in the talent competition (Share the Fun)

4-H University event. Teenage 4-H’ers from all over Florida spend a week at the University of Florida. They attend workshops, make new friends, and show off their 4-H spirit. This includes performing or speaking in front of another round of judges. This year this State Event was virtual. The event was streamed on Facebook Live and hosted by our own Broward County youth (great job Lydia)! Youth also interview for scholarships and other awards at 4-H U.

Broward 4-H’ers place

We were thrilled to see Daniel D won 1st place in the Share the Fun competition. He performed guitar and sang “Blackbird” and “Yesterday” by the Beatles. Mikayla A won a $1,000 scholarship to UF! Hayden H won a trip to National Congress and Lydia D won a trip to National Conference. Mason R placed first in the Senior Black and White Photography contest. Mason also won Best in Show for Seniors! Finally, Hayden H, Isabel R, and Lydia D all placed second in the State for public speaking using PowerPoint.

sunshine through clouds over water — Mason won best Senior Photography

Congratulations!

All of these 4-H youth have worked hard in Broward 4-H for many years. Their hard work was recognized at the county and state level. There are many ways to grow in 4-H. These youth are models of dedication and talent. We congratulate them and look forward to their future accomplishments!