By GALE FELDMAN
Two members of the Cambria 4-H club recently participated in the County 4-H Presentation Day, held at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on February 1. This event encourages youth to develop public speaking skills, research topics of interest, and share their passions. Jose, age 8, delivered an engaging presentation on the organs of the human body, while Malcolm, age 12, presented on making change in your local community. The participants were evaluated by three judges from Cal Poly, who provided feedback on their presentations. Both members received Gold Awards and a pin for their 4-H cap in recognition of their outstanding performances.
Jose and Malcolm will have the opportunity to compete in the state 4-H presentation competition at UC Davis. The competition will take place in person on May 17 and virtually via Zoom from May 4 through 8. Cambria’s 4-H speakers demonstrated their knowledge and their ability to communicate effectively—skills that will serve them well in the future. Congratulations to Jose and Malcolm for their dedication representing Cambria 4-H with enthusiasm and poise!
Public speaking has been a fundamental component of the University of California 4-H Youth Development Program for over 120 years. It emphasizes the ability to speak in front of a group incorporating skills, such as organizing ideas logically, using visual aids effectively, and developing confidence through structured feedback. Many UC 4-H alumni credit the program with helping them become more effective communicators in their professional and personal lives.
To prepare for Presentation Day, participants researched their chosen topics and used techniques such as chronological or topical organization. They practiced speaking before their project groups and meetings, honing essential public speaking skills including making eye contact, using vocal projection, being aware of body language, and engaging an audience.
Capturing and holding an audience’s attention is a crucial part of public speaking. The youth learned strategies like starting with an unexpected fact, incorporating humor, using props, and making their speeches interactive. They focused on effective communication styles, including appropriate speech pace, varying tone, and incorporating pauses to emphasize key points.
Be sure to visit the Cambria 4-H booth at the Cambria Non-Profit Faire on Saturday, April 5, where youth will be showcasing their projects in photography, baking, cultural art, and ribbon awards. You will also have the chance to meet some of their furry friends, including a pup who graduated from the 4-H training program, a rabbit, and possibly even a personable goat!
All youth are welcome to come to Cambria 4-H! For more information on upcoming meetings and events in 2025, please reach out to our wonderful 4-H leader Cece Lomeli at: 805-203-5234.
