4-H Members Attending National, International Conferences

Nova Scotia 4-H members will join their counterparts from across Canada and the United States to learn about leadership and discuss issues affecting young people at two prestigious conferences in April.

"Attending these conferences is a great opportunity for young Nova Scotians to get a first-hand look at national and international issues that could impact them and their communities," said Agriculture Minister John MacDonell. "Helping young people develop effective leadership abilities is one of the goals of the 4-H program."

Ten 4-H members will get to see the political processes in action when they attend the 39th annual National 4-H Seminar in Ottawa, April 8-14. They will join 55 other 4-H members from across the country to learn about rights, roles and responsibilities as Canadian citizens.

Participants will attend a swearing-in ceremony for new Canadians at Citizenship Court and tour Parliament Hill, the Supreme Court of Canada, National War Museum, Museum of Civilization and a camp at Fulton's Pancake House and Sugar Bush.

Ten delegates are attending the National 4-H Citizenship Seminar:

• Aime Cormier, Port Williams, Kings Co.
• Kim Walters, New Germany, Lunenburg Co.
• Chelsea Crawford, West Northfield, Lunenburg Co.
• Erica Jackson, Truro
• Heidi Anderson, Lower Truro
• Katelyn O'Connell, Brookfield, Colchester Co.
• Kevin Brown, Windsor
• Megan Sproule, Bridgetown
• Sandy Sutherland, River John, Pictou Co.
• Kayla Grahm, Scotsburn, Pictou Co.

Megan Smith of Nine Mile River, Hants Co., will represent the province at the United States national 4-H conference in Maryland, April 2-7.

The conference will help young people develop and practice the knowledge, resources and skills learned through 4-H. Participants will discuss topics affecting youth and empower and mobilize 4-H members to create positive social change in their communities.

"We are pleased to have many 4-H members attending these conferences," said Ruth Grant, senior 4-H program co-ordinator. "They will be excellent ambassadors for Nova Scotia and our 4-H program."