By Alice McFarlane

4-H youth leadership conference presents $12,000 in scholarships

Feb 6, 2024 | 1:48 PM

Over 30 aspiring young leaders in agriculture competed for scholarships at the annual Prairieland Youth Leadership Conference (PYLC), held in Saskatoon, Sask. last weekend.

The participants had the chance to develop their leadership skills though interactive activities, competitions, and workshops.

The event started on Saturday and closed on Sunday with an awards banquet, where parents joined for dinner and a scholarship presentation.

The conference included a presentation from Jolene Watson of Clarity Coaching and Development. She provided participants with insights on charismatic leadership focusing on communication style, leadership strategies, and effective listening.

Participants were divided into groups where they had to create a debate on topics relevant to their lives, including voting age in Canada and grass-fed versus grain-fed beef.

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On Sunday morning, the groups went head-to-head while presenting their supporting evidence on their appointed topic. Their rebuttals were based on the effective listening skills discussed in their Saturday session.

PYLC participants hold a debate as part of the conference at Prairieland Park. (supplied photo/Prairieland Park)

Four judges had the difficult task of marking the participants’ assignments and activities by observing them in a team situation as they worked.

Finishing in first place was Katelynn T. of the West PA 4-H Beef Club. She received a $4,500 scholarship.

“I’m planning to eventually go into medical school so this scholarship is definitely needed,” she said. ‘I’m really excited to see what the future holds and to see how many opportunities the scholarship opens up for me.”

Katelyn grew up on a beef cattle farm and has been with 4-H for seven years. She said when she heard about the conference, she thought it was something she would like to try.

“Last year I heard from some friends at a 4-H summer camp that PYLC was a great learning opportunity. I thought even if I don’t win, I will learn so much. You carry it with you your entire life. I thought I would be silly not to take that opportunity.”

Jolene Watson of Clarity Coaching & Development speaks to PYLC participants at the closing banquet. (supplied photo/Prairieland Park)

Second place and a $3,000 scholarship went to Shelby P. with the Saskatoon 4-H Beef Club, third place and a $2,500 scholarship was presented to Mara V. of the Springside 4-H Beef Club, Nicole W. with Old Bone Trail Multiple 4-H Club received a $1,000 scholarship for fourth spot and fifth place and a $1,000 scholarship went to Aiva B. with the Candiac 4-H Beef Club.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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