By Andi Anderson
Eighteen Iowa 4-H youth joined hundreds of young leaders from across the United States at the 2025 National 4-H Congress held from Nov. 28 through Dec. 2 in Atlanta Georgia.
The long standing event brought together youth to strengthen leadership skills build confidence and encourage collaboration through learning and service.
National 4 H Congress is a century long tradition that offers workshops service learning projects and opportunities to connect with peers and mentors nationwide.
Iowa delegates were selected through a competitive application and interview process during State 4 H Recognition Day. Selection focused on leadership civic engagement and personal growth.
During the event Iowa youth participated in workshops on team building networking service learning being the change and habits of successful teens. These sessions encouraged youth to lead effectively and apply their skills within their communities.
“I came back with new ideas to bring back to my communities and a clearer sense of how I want to contribute,” shared Clara Fulton. “I felt inspiration by the youth [at Congress] around me to become a better leader.”
All responding delegates rated their experience positively with most giving the trip a perfect score. All participants agreed they improved leadership skills felt confident working in groups and formed meaningful connections with peers and mentors.
“The most important thing that I learned at Congress was leadership skills and engaging with other delegates and adults,” said Rylie Campbell. “The workshops taught me valuable networking and team skills and helped me learn how to build my 4-H story.”
“Most importantly, I learned ways to pave a path to the future and the person I want to be,” said Denali Coffman.
Youth also emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives. “I learned how valuable it is to be around people who think differently than I do,” said Sahana Nagarajan. “Leadership blossoms when you pay attention to other perspectives instead of just your own.”
“I learned how to connect with people — from around the nation or right here in Iowa — and the value of relationships in 4-H,” added Adylyn Petersen.
Service learning played a key role. Delegates completed park cleanup projects in Atlanta and explored civic engagement topics. “I was proud of our volunteer work and the ways we improved the amazing community that was hosting us,” said Adelyn Vinsand.
Educational tours and new friendships added to the experience. “I was surprised by how many unique people I met and how many friends I made,” Campbell said.
Delegates returned home ready to apply their skills. “Trips like this give youth the chance to see new places meet new people and learn skills you can’t get at home,” Nagarajan said. “Experiences like this make leadership more hands-on instead of just something you talk about.”
“These trips allow you to grow as a person and you make relationships that will last a lifetime,” said Lilah Heinz-Wilson.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle