Written By Lexx Thornton
For Ja’Myah Knox, participation in the 2025 National 4-H Conference in Arlington, Va., meant more than just an exercise in personal development — it was a milestone on a journey of deep personal significance.
Knox, a May 2025 graduate of White Hall High School, was selected to attend the week-long event thanks to years of involvement in programming through the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s 4-H Youth Development Program, according to Teki Hunt, director for the UAPB program. She credits Knox with a strong record of 4-H participation, leadership, and community involvement.
Hosted by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the conference is the flagship youth development opportunity of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Each spring, hundreds of 4-H’ers from across the country gather to network, problem-solve, and share their voice with federal agencies and congressional committees.
“Representing my state at the National 4-H Conference was an unforgettable experience and one of the proudest moments of my 4-H journey,” Knox said. “It was both exciting and humbling to be chosen as a delegate — to know that I was representing not only myself but also my local club, my community, and the legacy of my family’s long involvement in 4-H.”
Knox said the conference exposed her to a national network of youth leaders who are passionate about making a difference. She found it empowering and inspiring to collaborate with other delegates on real-world issues and present ideas to federal agencies.
“Even though public speaking isn’t in my comfort zone, being in that environment helped me grow in confidence and step outside of my shell,” she said. “Personally, the experience deepened my appreciation for what 4-H stands for: leadership, service, and community. It reminded me of the values my great-grandparents and grandparents lived by, and it encouraged me to keep building on that foundation. I left the conference feeling more motivated than ever to give back and to continue developing skills that will help me serve others in the future.”
During the conference, Knox participated in a breakout group focused on AmeriCorps National Service, a government-supported program that engages people of all ages in community service to address critical local needs. The session explored how AmeriCorps programs align with 4-H’s mission of youth development, civic engagement, and community leadership.
“One idea that I was especially passionate about was creating mentorship programs where former 4-H members who have served in AmeriCorps can guide youth who are interested in joining,” she said. “I believe mentorship is such a powerful way to support young people as they navigate new opportunities. Having someone who has been through the experience can provide valuable insight, encouragement, and practical advice.”
Knox said she believes this approach builds on the strong sense of community and support that 4-H fosters.
“It also creates a bridge between 4-H and AmeriCorps, helping youth see the real-life impact of service and leadership,” she said. “I think hearing firsthand from peers who have served makes the idea of AmeriCorps more accessible and inspiring, and it can motivate more young people to get involved and give back to their communities.”
Knox said she returned to Pine Bluff with a desire to bring a stronger sense of teamwork and community engagement to her local 4-H club.
