The Beginning of a Whirlwind Chapter in my 4-H Story…

            My name is Allison French and today I am going to take you on my journey to becoming a 2019 4-H Ontario Ambassador. It all started with the Peel 4-H Association in 2011 where I have completed over 75 projects to date, ranging from seed mosaic to garden tractor pulling, as well as dairy and clowning club. I am going to go through four quotes that I feel best tell the story of why I chose to become a 4-H Ontario Ambassador, and show how excited I am for this journey to begin.

“You’ll miss the best things if you keep your eyes shut.” -Dr. Seuss

I have learned to always be open to new opportunities even if they are outside of your comfort zone. If you had of asked me three years ago if I was going to be an Ambassador for 4-H Ontario I would have said, “That’s funny.” However, after seeing my two sisters complete terms through this amazing program, I decided why not. Julie was an Ambassador in 2016 and Nicole was an Ambassador in 2017 and 2018. Some would say I had to carry on the “French Tradition”. Although I was hesitant at first, I am happy that I opened my eyes to this incredible opportunity that will lead to an amazing year.  

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.” -Dr. Seuss

In February the newly crowned 2019 team of 4-H Ontario Ambassadors had their training weekend full of impromptu speaking, icebreakers, ideas for captivating your audience and of course lots of fun. After our weekend full of laughs I am ready to take on the role of being an Ambassador of the 4-H program. The 4-H program has shaped who I am today as a leader and I am eager to give back to the program that has given me so much. I am steering myself to be an advocate for 4-H and to make a positive impact on the youth in our province.

“You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So get on your way!” -Dr. Seuss

            I am excited for this upcoming year as an Ambassador as I have seen first hand the impact it has had on both of my sisters’ lives. 4-H has so many opportunities that will push you out of your comfort zone and challenge you to become a stronger leader. Being an Ambassador is going to challenge me to become a stronger public speaker, leader and 4-H member.

“Just tell yourself, Duckie, you’re really quite lucky” -Dr. Seuss

I am extremely lucky for the opportunity to become a 4-H Ontario Ambassador and can’t wait to see what this year has in store. The 4-H Ontario Ambassador Program would not be possible without the generous support of FS.