Written by Evelyn Wade and Evelyn Hill, Ohio 4-H’ers
What is Ignite by 4-H?
Ignite is an inspirational four-day summit that brings together 4-H’ers from across the nation through shared experiences, hands-on workshops, and a passion for creating positive change. During this time, 4-H’ers dive into a pin trade, workshops on a variety of topics, networking opportunities with established professionals, and the chance to turn their passion into a project that creates change within their communities.
The summit challenges delegates to think outside the box and take initiative in making their ideas a reality through Lead to Change projects that can earn real funding. Through programming tracks such as AgriScience, Animal Science, Community Accelerators, CWF @ Ignite, Healthy Living (featuring soccer), or STEM, delegates can explore topic areas that interest them, with the chance to hear from keynote speakers who help teens “ignite their spark.” Ignite provides a much-needed opportunity for 4-H’ers to create a web of connections that allows them to share ideas and create friendships that transcend the summit. Being an Ignite by 4-H delegate is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences that focuses on uplifting teens in a way that makes them feel capable to take on the world. Ignite isn't just a conference, it’s the coming together of changemakers who are dedicated to making each delegate Beyond Ready for the future.
Our Story
A year ago, Evelyn Hill and I (Evelyn Wade) attended the 2025 Ignite by 4-H Summit as delegates for Ohio 4-H. Out of nearly twenty teens, we quickly realized how similar we were; same drive, same passion for leadership, and even the same name. It was ironic, but it sparked a friendship.
Fast forward to this year.
I had been completely inspired at the 2025 Ignite by 4-H Summit, and that spark led me to pursue opportunities I had never before felt capable of. It gave me the ambition and motivation to live every day with more intention than I had. With that in mind, I applied to be a Workshop Leader for the 2026 Ignite Summit with the intention of presenting a workshop titled “Refining My Personal Brand” with a friend I had made from the 2024 Fashion Board.
Ten days before finalizing the details for the Ignite by 4-H Summit 2026, my co-presenter had to step away. I nervously sent a long-shot text to Evelyn Hill, and she excitedly said yes. Months later, we were navigating delayed flights, late-night metro rides, and walking the streets of D.C., ready to make an impact.
We spent the week supporting delegate activities and speaking on stage, and on Saturday, we led three sessions on “Refining Your Personal Brand.” It didn’t start perfectly. Wi-Fi issues, missing visuals, and smaller attendance could have thrown us off.
But 4-H taught us to adapt.
We shifted toward conversation, invited honesty, and created space for delegates to share their own experiences. In response, they engaged; so much so that we started running out of time. We pivoted again, sharing our resources through Instagram @developingyourpersonalbrand4h, so the conversation didn’t have to end when the session did. By the end, people stayed to ask questions, connect via LinkedIn, and tell us our workshop was one of their favorites.
Our Next Steps
Stepping into Ignite, we were worried that our age made our voices less valuable. After presenting, we realized that it was the most valuable strength we brought to the room. The 4-H mentality of “learn by doing” rang loud and clear for us. While our focus was on giving teens valuable material for success, we learned more than we expected.
The most important lesson was that growth is only found outside our comfort zone. Ohio 4-H had already given us the skills to face any obstacle in our way; we simply had to take the first step.
Our work is not done yet. Looking forward, we hope to not only present again at the Ignite by 4-H Summit but also bring our passions closer to home and present in Ohio.
We both were so thankful for the opportunity to represent Ohio 4-H on the national level, and we hope to continue our endeavors in presenting, impacting, and inspiring the 4-H community.