The recent Indian River 4-H County Events held on February 1, 2025, was a spectacular showcase of youth talent, hard work, and dedication. This competitive event, open to all 4-H members in the county aged 8-18, provided an excellent platform for participants to gain valuable experience in public speaking, demonstrate their skills, and show their passion for a variety of topics. Through engaging in public speaking, demonstrations, illustrative talks, and photography contests, youth in the 4-H program were given the chance to not only challenge themselves but also gain confidence and learn skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
A Variety of Topics Showcasing Talent and Passion
At the heart of the 4-H County Events were the inspiring presentations given by members. Participants shared their knowledge on a wide range of subjects that spanned from the animal industry to leisure, performing arts, and beyond. The variety of topics demonstrated the broad range of interests that 4-H members are passionate about. For example, in the Leisure and Performing Arts category, some standout demonstrations included “Life Hacks,” “Sailing Knots,” “Becoming a Better Barista,” “How to Make a Lemon Sugar Scrub,” “How to Make a Tie Dye Shirt,” and “The Basics and History of Fencing.” These fun and creative topics captivated the audience and showcased the diverse talents of the participants.
In the Animal Industry category, members delivered compelling demonstrations like “Swine Digestion” and “Moove That Cow.” Similarly, the Horse category featured presentations such as “How to Treat Thrush,” “How to Properly Turn a Barrel,” and “Feed and Supplements for Barrel Racing Horses.” Team demonstrations such as “Don’t Obsess Over an Abscess” and “Foal Speed Ahead” also drew great attention. Additionally, one participant presented a speech titled “Show Time!” on her experience with livestock showmanship, providing an insightful look into the world of competitive animal handling.
Building Confidence and Skills for the Future
One of the most valuable aspects of participating in County Events is the opportunity for young people to develop essential life skills that will benefit them far beyond the 4-H arena. Public speaking and demonstration events help youth learn how to communicate effectively, organize their thoughts, and present ideas clearly. Whether speaking in front of an audience or explaining a complex process, the act of preparing and delivering a presentation boosts confidence and enhances interpersonal skills.
In addition to these foundational skills, participants also receive feedback from judges, which helps them grow and improve for future competitions. These experiences provide a safe and supportive environment for youth to practice their speaking and presentation skills while receiving constructive criticism from experts in the field. This process not only builds confidence but also teaches resilience and the ability to handle challenges—traits that will be valuable in job interviews, college applications, and all aspects of adult life.
Recognizing Excellence: Ribbon Awards and Results
The results of this year’s County Events were nothing short of impressive. The talent, preparation, and dedication of the participants were reflected in the ribbon awards they received. A total of 88% of participants earned blue ribbons, which were awarded to those who scored between 90-100 points. The blue-ribbon recognition indicates exceptional performance and demonstrates the hard work and commitment these youth put into their presentations. Additionally, 12% of participants received red ribbons for scoring between 80-89 points, further highlighting the high level of achievement across the board.
It’s clear that the majority of participants truly excelled in their demonstrations and speeches, impressing the judges with their knowledge, enthusiasm, and skill. The blue-ribbon winners have the exciting opportunity to advance to the District Events, a multi-county competition that could lead them to the prestigious Florida State 4-H Competitive Events, where they can continue to showcase their abilities.
The Road Ahead: From County Events to Statewide Recognition
The County Events serve as an important stepping stone for youth who are eager to continue developing their skills and achieve greater accomplishments. Those who earned a blue ribbon will now have the chance to compete at District Events on March 29th, 2025, where they will meet fellow 4-H members from surrounding counties and continue their journey of growth and learning. The top performers at District Events will then move on to the Florida State 4-H Competitive Events, representing not just their county but the hard work and dedication they’ve shown throughout their 4-H careers.
The experiences and skills gained from participating in County Events leave a lasting impact on the participants. These young people will carry the lessons they’ve learned from preparing for and competing in these events with them for years to come, as they step into adulthood with newfound confidence and abilities that will serve them well in their personal and professional lives.
A Lifelong Impact
4-H County Events provide more than just an opportunity to compete—they offer a space for youth to grow, learn, and shine. Whether through public speaking, demonstrations, or photography, participants gain experiences that not only enhance their abilities but also shape their futures. The connections, skills, and memories formed through these events will stay with these young individuals forever, setting the stage for continued success in their careers, education, and beyond. We can’t wait to see what these bright young minds will achieve in the future. Their accomplishments today will surely pave the way for an even brighter tomorrow.
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