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National 4-H Council Ignite initiative connecting youth to career opportunities through hands-on learning activities

The vice president of 4-H youth experiences says the Ignite initiative is helping young people prepare for future careers in ag.

Sadaf Baig with the National 4-H Council says the program includes work readiness workshops and job exploration.

“They’re gaining confidence as they present, learn from each other, learning how civic engagement works, and building skills that they can carry into what’s next,” she says. “It’s these experiences that help them grow and feel beyond ready for work and life.”

She tells Brownfield the program’s Lead to Change action plan encourages students to apply those skills in their local communities. 

“It encourages peer to peer learning in a real-world environment,” she says. “It’s really important to give these young people a point of in-person connection with like-minded individuals to discover pathways that prepare them for the future.”

The National 4-H Council provides career readiness and professional development activities for students year-round in all 50 states. 

AUDIO: Sadaf Baig, National 4-H Council