Each year, the South Florida Fair becomes a beacon of creativity and excitement for youth in our community. From January 17th to February 2nd, 2025, 4-H members from Palm Beach and Broward Counties showcased their talents and hard work through a diverse array of projects, earning recognition and fostering personal growth in the process. These events demonstrate not only the breadth of skills grown in 4-H programs but also the invaluable role these experiences play in shaping future leaders and innovators.

4-H Project Categories

The fair highlighted the incredible range of 4-H project areas, including:

• Horticulture: Cultivating green thumbs while learning sustainable practices.
• Natural Sciences: Encouraging curiosity about the world around us.
• STEM: Inspiring innovation and technological exploration.
• Clothing & Textiles: Fostering creativity and practical skills in design and sewing.
• Personal Development & Leadership: Building confidence, communication, and leadership capabilities.
• Photography: Encouraging artistic expression and storytelling through the lens.
• Arts & Crafts: Allowing imagination to shine through creative mediums.
• Performance Arts: Showcasing talents in music, drama, and dance.
• Health & Food & Nutrition: Promoting wellness and culinary skills.
• Animal Science: From poultry to dairy goats, market hogs to cattle, fostering responsibility, and animal husbandry skills.

The Judging Process: A Platform for Skill Development

A key aspect of the fair experience is the judging process, where

youth demonstrate a variety of essential life skills:

• Planning and Organization: Preparing their projects for submission requires careful planning, attention to detail, and time management.
• Critical Thinking: As they polish their projects, youth must evaluate their work critically and make improvements to ensure the best possible presentation.
• Public Speaking and Self-Motivation: Presenting their projects to a panel of judges hones their communication skills and builds their confidence in expressing themselves.

Judges utilize the Danish judging system, which evaluates participants based on their individual merit rather than comparing them to others. This approach fosters a supportive environment where each youth’s effort and personal growth are recognized and celebrated.

By the Numbers: 2025 Achievements

Throughout the year, 4-H members dedicate countless hours to perfecting their projects. Their efforts culminate in entries submitted to the South Florida Fair, and the results this year were nothing short of extraordinary:

56 4-H members from Palm Beach and Broward Counties entered over 250 exhibits.

Achievements included:

• • 58 Grand Champion ribbons (purple)
  • 161 first-place ribbon (blue)
  • 8 second-place ribbons (red)

A total of $2,323 was awarded in student premiums, generously provided by the South Florida Fair and its partners.

Why Events Like These Matter

Participation in events like the South Florida Fair offers youth more than just ribbons and prizes. It provides a platform to:

• Showcase their talents: Youth gain recognition for their skills and hard work, boosting their confidence.
• Develop real-world skills: Through project preparation and presentations, 4-H members hone critical thinking, problem-solving, and public speaking skills.
• Build a sense of community: Interacting with peers and mentors fosters collaboration and networking.
• Encourage future pursuits: Exposure to diverse project areas can spark lifelong interests and career aspirations.

A Future Full of Promise

The 4-H exhibits at the South Florida Fair embody the organization’s motto: “To Make the Best Better.” The achievements of 4-H members in 2025 remind us of the importance of investing in programs that empower youth. As they dream, design, and do, these young leaders are shaping a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

Let’s continue to celebrate and support their journey—because the future truly starts here.

To participate in these activities, youth must be enrolled 4-H members. To enroll your youth in 4-H, contact your local 4-H Agents!

1