Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to judge the Myrnam & District 4-H Club's Communications Night. An evening of public speaking and presentations, from members as young as 9 years old, all the way up to 16 years old. The topics varied from Ukrainian culture, to goose hunting and procrastination, to name a few. As I watched and critiqued these young 4-H'ers, I was reminded why I consider the 4-H program to be so important to me, and my growth as a young entrepreneur.

4-H is where my story in agriculture starts. Having been an active member, from 9 to 18 years, in BC, I sampled a variety of 4-H projects which helped me to build a broader prospective of the agricultural industry.

Most people consider cows, horses, pigs and sheep when they think of farming and agriculture, but 4-H taught me it's much more than what's in the barn.

It taught me the value of teamwork and showmanship, the ability to tackle tough decisions and make accurate judgements of a situation. 4-H reminded me of community spirit and the strength of love and compassion, for both human and animal lives. The program gave me tools and resources to think outside the box, it brought me obstacles I had to learn to face and work through. 4-H was one stepping stone in my path to self-discovery and unwrapping my passion for communications.

You see, not many people enjoy standing up in front of a crowd and speaking about a topic. Heck, it's rated as one of the scariest activities! Through the 4-H program, I learned to embrace that fear and discover the power and excitement that speaking and networking with various people could create for my future endeavours.

I've always been a relatively outgoing individual, with an extroverted personality. (Hey, I wouldn't have made it in sales or communications if I didn't! ;) ) But 4-H taught me how to harness my natural abilities and strengths and use them proactively. Today, my company Just.Ag Productions, would not be even a thought in my head, if it hadn't been for the 4-H program.

With that, I owe a lot of thanks to an organization that helped to shape my young mind, and the minds of many others, to think and work outside that box. Because if there's one thing that members of the agricultural industry can agree upon, you've got to think outside that box to be successful in such a volatile industry.

I encourage everyone to explore the opportunities that 4-H can provide to not only youth, but adults as well. The ample and varied programs, networks and opportunities continue to grow within this amazing program. From giving back as a club leader, judge for various events, or industry speaker at a club meeting, I can guarantee that 4-H will welcome you with arms wide open.

Thank you again, Myrnam & District 4-H Club, for inviting me to judge your Communications Night!