Youth Empowerment at Inaugural Leaders Conference

Oklahoma 4-H’s Rising Leaders Conference Fosters Youth Engagement and Development

On April 5, over 100 young Oklahomans involved in 4-H programs convened in Stillwater for the inaugural Rising Leaders Conference. This event, organized by Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development, aims to inspire and empower youth from third to seventh grades to take on leadership roles and cultivate their interests in agriculture and related fields.

The conference commenced with an address from the Oklahoma 4-H state officers, who set the tone for the day’s activities by emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in agriculture. Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur subsequently delivered a keynote speech, designating 2025 as the “Year of Youth in Agriculture.” Arthur underscored the critical role that Oklahoma 4-H plays in not only attracting youth to the agricultural sector but also equipping them with vital life skills that will serve them well into adulthood.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in four dynamic rotations of workshops, which were meticulously prepared and delivered by a diverse group of volunteers, county educators, and experienced older 4-H members. The conference featured a total of 12 unique workshops, each designed to provide young attendees with hands-on experiences in various project areas. This immersive approach encourages practical learning while fostering a sense of community among participants.

In addition to the youth programming, an afternoon session was thoughtfully organized for accompanying parents and adult family members. This segment aimed to integrate family involvement by providing educational information and resources that help support the ongoing development of the young 4-H members at home.

The workshops covered a range of topics, ensuring that participants could find interests aligned with their personal passions and aspirations. This variety not only keeps the content fresh and engaging but also aids in shaping well-rounded future leaders equipped for the challenges of tomorrow’s agricultural landscape.

Overall, the inaugural Rising Leaders Conference exemplifies Oklahoma 4-H’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders. By focusing on experiential learning and community involvement, the program aims to create a robust network of youth equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in both their personal and professional lives. As the Year of Youth in Agriculture approaches, initiatives like this underscore the significance of fostering youth engagement in agriculture and building a sustainable future for the industry.