In North Carolina 4-H, remarkable individuals have made headway into becoming united by a common aspiration: to climb to greatness. Jo Sundbom, Sally Cabrera, Emma Haynes, and Jacob Hanlon bring their unique perspectives and passions to the forefront of youth leadership.

Jo Sundbom's journey in 4-H is a testament to personal growth and transformation. Over the past twelve years, she has immersed herself in various clubs, excelling in livestock, forestry, and family consumer sciences. Her commitment to 4-H principles is unwavering, and at just 19 years old, she is an incoming sophomore at North Carolina Wesleyan University, pursuing a degree in public health. Her leadership and achievements in 4-H underscore her dedication and highlight her potential to impact public health significantly. Her comprehensive 4-H experience has equipped her with the tools to foster community well-being and sustainable practices, a journey that will inspire future 4-H members.

Sally Cabrera's 4-H journey began with a passion for quilting in Lee County but quickly evolved into something more.From participating in 4-H camps and quilting workshops to joining cooking clubs and exploring the field of electrical engineering, Sally's involvement in 4-H has been diverse. Within this diverse landscape, Sally found her calling, igniting a passion for electrical engineering that would shape her career trajectory. Today, she pursues her own path in electrical engineering and plays a pivotal role in fostering similar opportunities for others in Lee County. Serving as a leader in her county 4-H electric program and spearheading various electrical initiatives, Sally is a testament to how 4-H can inspire and empower individuals to explore their interests and significantly impact their communities.

Emma Haynes, a Franklin County 4-H’er, is a shining example of the potential of the North Carolina 4-H community. Involved in 4-H since the age of five, Emma has immersed herself in various aspects of the 4-H lifestyle, mainly focusing on agriculture with her commitment to raising rabbits for one of her projects. Beyond her agricultural pursuits, Emma has embraced the values of leadership, citizenship, and community service, showcasing her commitment through attending national conferences and serving in officer positions at various levels. During her time as State Council Member Engagement, she has made it one of her top priorities to empower Juntos 4-H students, demonstrating a passion for their growth and success. As a 4-H Honor Club member, Emma is determined to make a lasting impact, further enriching the 4-H community and empowering its members to reach their full potential. Her future contributions to 4-H are sure to inspire and guide future generations.

Jacob Hanlon embodies North Carolina 4-H's core values of personal development and community involvement. He was introduced to 4-H at age five and has remained active in Burke County over the last 14 years. His journey began with a fascination for science and technology, sparking his interest in the 4-H Electric Program. Jacob has gained valuable knowledge and skills through his dedication to this program. Still, he has also been consistently recognized, earning him every accolade and award it offers at the state level. Aside from his achievements in the Electric Program, Jacob has developed essential life skills like public speaking and leadership through his involvement in 4-H, allowing him to climb to greatness by becoming a confident and capable individual in his community. As a State Council Reporter, he frequently documents 4-H events across the state, seamlessly merging his passion for photography and journalism with his fondness for 4-H and its initiatives. Motivated by his transformative experience, Jacob is pursuing a career in youth development, aiming to impart to youth the same values of resilience and community that have been integral to his 4-H journey.

Jo, Sally, Emma, and Jacob (your State 4-H Council Officers) exemplify the spirit of NC 4-H and the boundless potential of youth leadership. As they continue their ascent towards greatness, they serve as beacons of inspiration for future generations, illuminating the path forward with passion, purpose, and unwavering determination. In their hands, the future of North Carolina 4-H shines brighter than ever!