MATIAS HABIB
Sustaining the Future Award State Award: Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences Kendall | Science Ambassadors, Millbrook Mighty Ones, Ag Innovators Through his 4-H Entomology projects, Matias conducted extensive research on an invasive species, the Japanese Beetle. He studied natural methods of control, and eventually developed an effective bio-pesticide that works to protect foliage while still able to repel and kill the beetles. He launched his business, TerraBuster, to manufacture and sell his bio-pesticides, which are now sold locally in nurseries and through his online store. Matias is also very involved in Science Ambassadors, a group dedicated to educating youth in science through fun learning activities. “4-H means opportunity, challenge, friendships, and personal growth. 4-H allows youth to expand their horizons, learn new skills, and develop into leaders.” EDUCATION & CAREER: Matias plans to attend a top university where he will explore his interests in science, engineering, and agriculture.
MAKENNA HARDING
Emerald Project Learning Experience Award Macoupin | Crazy Clovers This past year, Makenna completed a variety of Visual Arts-based workshops and events where she was able to enhance her creative side and also participated in 4-H Cook and Connect along with other cooking lessons through 4-H. She also took advantage of opportunities to attend the Illinois State Fair, 4-H National Day of Service, Officer’s Training, and took part in community service in her local community and beyond. “4-H provides me the opportunity to learn new things, teaches me how I can give back to others, and is fun.” EDUCATION & CAREER: Makenna will finish middle school and then go to high school. She plans to go to college, but is not yet sure what she wants to study.
PAYTON HARDING
Emerald Project Learning Experience Award Macoupin | Crazy Clovers Payton participated in a variety of cooking workshops and events, including 4-H Cook & Connect, in order to enhance her Cooking 201 project. She also won the State 4-H Archery Virtual Shoot in her age division, and participated in various photography contests and workshops both inside and outside of 4-H. This year, Payton took part in 4-H Officer’s Training, the International Pen Pal program, the Illinois State Fair, National Day of Service, and a wide variety of community service throughout the 4-H year. “4-H teaches me how to be a leader, how to work well with others, and allows me to try new things. It helps me be a better person.” EDUCATION & CAREER: Payton will finish middle school and then attend Carlinville High School.
12
ANNSLEY HEALY
Emerald Project Learning Experience Award White | Enfield Blue Ribbon 4-H Club, White County 4-H Federation Throughout her 4-H career, Annsley has shown a number of projects, including Swine and Corn, and even presented programs to her club on how to judge swine and how to estimate corn yield. She also attended the Illinois 4-H Junior Livestock Conference. Along with her club, Annsley participated in the National Day of Service, as well as a number of local service events, including leading a project for her club to make cards for their local nursing home residents. “4-H means the opportunity for learning and leadership experiences, community service, and friendships.” EDUCATION & CAREER: Annsley plans to attend college to study Agriculture. She would like to eventually own her own cattle company.
JULIAN HEIDRICH
Emerald Leadership Experience Award Kendall County | Barn and Beyond 4-H Club, Kendall County 4-H Federation, Extension Unit 5 Science Ambassadors, Leadership Team, Illinois 4-H Youth Leadership Team Julian worked with the Science Ambassadors program in his unit to create and teach science curriculum to youth, and especially underprivileged youth, in his local area. Julian is an active member of the state 4-H Youth Leadership team and has served on the Illini Summer Academies Planning Committee. “4-H is a place where kids have opportunities to learn and grow while developing important life skills and becoming prepared and excited about their future.” EDUCATION & CAREER: Julian is attending college studying computer science.
SOFIE HEIDRICH
Emerald Leadership Experience Award Kendall | Barn and Beyond 4-H Club President, Kendall County Teen Federation, Unit 5 Science Ambassador Member, Unit 5 Science Ambassador Leadership Team Secretary, Kendall County Expansion and Review Youth Representative, Kendall County 4-H Foundation Youth Representative In the past year, Sofie has presented and participated in the 2021 National 4-H Youth Summit on Agri-Science, been the 2021 Vice President of the Barn and Beyond 4-H Club, designed, planned, and led Community Rain Garden at the Kendall County Extension Office, facilitated a Curb your Carbon Appetite activity at after school programs, and planned statewide trainings on Water Connects Us All. She also participated in Kendall Walk 4 Charity, Kindness Challenge, was an Officer Training Leader, and showcased multiple project areas at the Kendall County fair, showing Civic Engagement at the State Fair. “New opportunities to learn and grow, try new things, and meet new people.” EDUCATION & CAREER: Sofie plans to attend college, but has not yet decided on a career path.