The American Samoa 4-H Youth Council that attended the 2024 National 4-H Conference held in Washington, D.C. last month says their participation has widened their outlook on the impact of 4-h clubs.
They said, “The knowledge, skills, and friendships we gained during the conference will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our lives and our community. We return home with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to applying what we’ve learned to effect positive change in our territory.”
The group attended workshops, meetings with federal government officials, and other activities aimed at developing leadership skills and increasing participants’ understanding of government functions and civic responsibilities. They networked with other 4-H youth, and participated in several roundtable discussions on issues affecting youth.
They also had the opportunity to provide input to help shape future 4-H programming through briefing presentations to federal officials at agencies throughout the Washington, D.C. area.
American Samoa’s delegation consisted of 13 current members of the American Samoa 4-H Youth Council: Fuarosa Molesi, Heavenlee Ames, Renee Dunson, Ngaire Cendrowski, Tuluiga Siaki, Lemafoe Muliipu, Ida Tatupu, Maria Dolorosa Talatau, Asifoaeuta K. Lagai, Iosefa Luamanu, Esene Su’a, Shelton Ume, and Faagutu Salanoa. Three delegates received scholarships for free travel and conference registration.
The delegation was accompanied by the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) – Agriculture, Community and Natural Resources (ACNR) Extension Coordinator and Territorial 4-H Program Leader Tialavea Molly Asifoa-Lagai, 4-H Agent Toepo Leiataua, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent Aliimau Petaia, Ag Extension Agent MeleFaiai, and Forestry Technician Pasia Setu.
