Student Wins 4-H Speech Contest and Develops Life Skills

A speech about the importance of respect in relationships and society took first place in a recent Stavely Parkland 4-H Club. The author and speaker was 15-year-old Faye Todd, a Grade 10 student at J.T. Foster School in Nanton. Todd has been in 4-H for six years and has had many opportunities to speak at events from Nanton to Lethbridge.

"In addition to public speaking, 4-H has taught me the importance of preserving our agriculture industry and the values of hard work, dedication," says Todd. "As a student, 4-H has given me the skills of literacy, responsibility, problem solving, and communication with both adults and peers."

Jason MacDonald, J.T. Foster School Principal sees these life skills in Todd's school experience. "Faye is a standout leader who demonstrates a strong commitment to both our school and community," says MacDonald. "Her actions reflect her core values and dedication to making a positive impact."

Having had many family discussions about the virtue of respect and its loss in our society, Todd chose this topic for her award-winning speech. "We as a society should be more mindful of others and the respect we give them," says Todd. "By writing this speech, I am able to remind people of this important virtue and that we should keep it a constant in our lives."

The 4-H program not only requires Todd to raise a livestock project but also hold a club position, compete in judging competitions, create workshops, and mentor younger members. This year she is Vice President of the Stavely Parkland 4-H Club. Because of her 4-H experience, Todd won a 2-week, all-expenses paid trip to New York and area as an ambassador for the Oddfellows and Rebekahs Pilgrimage of Youth program. 

With all these important skills and learning experiences, it's no wonder that Todd is a leader in her school.  "Faye's ability to inspire and uplift those around her makes her an invaluable asset to us all," says MacDonald.