4-H Conference Trains Tomorrow's Leaders

Forty 4-H members will develop leadership skills they can use in the 4-H program, their community and chosen career at a conference Saturday, Feb. 28 and Sunday, March 1.

"The 4-H program prides itself on teaching life skills to all 4-H members and instilling confidence in them to become leaders in their home, community and business lives," said Mark Parent, Minister of Agriculture. "This conference provides an excellent opportunity for young people to develop their personal and leadership skills."

The two-day event, called Learners Today - Leaders Tomorrow, is for 4-H youth age 14 to 21 and will be held at the Debert Hospitality Centre in Debert, Colchester Co.

"We want delegates at this conference to develop a passion to be strong leaders in every aspect of their lives and see their future filled with many possibilities," said Arthur Pick, acting manager for 4-H and rural organizations.

Speakers include Jessica Bowden from Teens Now Talk magazine, who will discuss her work with youth; Bailey MacIntosh of Students in Business, who will talk about the similar skills needed to market a business and the 4-H program; and Kristin Roe, who will speak about community engagement and her experience with the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

On Sunday, motivational speakers Mark Essay will present a hands-on session that explores the benefits of being involved in 4-H, and Gerry Sullivan will teach the group how the power of laughter can impact their work and family life.

The conference is sponsored by the Agri-Food Industry Development Fund; Canadian 4-H Council - Agrium 4-H Youth Leadership Initiative Program; Nova Scotia 4-H Council; and the Department of Agriculture.