Leadership education builds several important assets in Kentucky youth and provides critical elements of youth development (Search Institute, 2004; Pittman, Irby & Ferber, 2001.)  Youth exposed to a variety of leadership opportunities for personal development:

-develop confidence in their leadership potential and own sense of identity

-improve self-esteem

-enhance communication skills in sharing, reflecting, and discussing

-understand the importance of diversity and improve ability to relate to others

-learn effective decision-making methods and experience problem-solving situations

-learn group social skills (Unlock Your Leadership Potential: A Leadership Project Guide, University of Florida, October 2009.)

4-H employee teens in a variety of situations to promote the development of their leadership and life skills.  UK Cooperative Extension 4-H programs in Ohio, Hancock, Henderson, and Webster Counties collaborated in the implementation of the  4-H Teen Leadership Academy (TLA) for 8^th-11^th grade members. TLA met monthly (4.5 hours) throughout the year in various district locations and focused on developing leadership, social, communication, and life skills.

The youth developed relationships and teamwork to accomplish tasks at each session. Activities ranged from physical challenges at a “ropes course”, applying food safety/preparation skills that included oral and visual presentations and SET challenges.  Delegates developed a resume that will be utilized for future job interviews and college scholarship applications.   Delegates worked in collaborative groups to create a marketing/promotional video that can be used to promote 4-H on social media. 

Post-evaluation results showed an overall increase of knowledge, skills, and aspirations.

*86% felt confident in their increased leadership skills as a result of TLA

*50% believed TLA had a positive impact on their self-confidence

*79% are prepared to complete a job application, resume, and job interview

*86% have a better understanding of personality styles and how to work with others

*71% understand how personality styles and diversity can affect the group’s dynamics

TLA prepared delegates for leadership opportunities in 4-H and in their communities that will benefit them in post-secondary education and the workforce. Since graduation, 4-H teen involvement has shown a significant increase:  Ten graduates are attending 2019 4-H Teen Conference,  the number of teens (4) that have applied to serve on the State 4-H Teen Council, as well as applicants showing interest in State 4-H Leadership Boards, State 4-H Officers, and the KY 4-H Performing Arts Troupe. 

Delegate Statements from the post-assessment survey:

--”TLA has made me able to speak in front of others”

--“My leadership skills have increased because I learned how to take charge and step up to the plate”

--“I learned how to work with other types (personality styles) of people”

--“I learned how to try something new, be bold, and be the best”

--“I learned how to function as a team”

--“I learned how to work together and be creative”

--“I loved being in front of the camera to share what I love to do”