From 2–6 November, 4-H representatives from around the world gathered in Taipei for the 4th Global 4-H Network Summit under the inspiring theme “Beyond Ready and Lead Beyond.”
Five days filled with inspiration, knowledge-sharing and meaningful connections brought together young leaders, 4-H organisations and partners from across the globe.
Through inspiring keynote presentations, projects showcases, country reports and interactive workshops, we explored new perspectives on positive youth development, sustainable learning and the future of 4-H. The programme also took us beyond the conference rooms – discovering Taipei, meeting local farmers’ associations and 4-H clubs, agriculture innovations, visiting tea gardens, forests and fisheries, while celebrating Taiwan’s culture and traditions.
Strengthening Finland’s voice in the global 4-H community
Bettina C. Lindfors, representing Swedish-speaking 4-H Finland (Finlands svenska 4H), proudly represented Finland and Europe alongside youth delegates Eva Bussman and Frida Åbacka and Evelyn Strömsbäck.
Bettina’s participation included high-level meetings, discussions with the Ministry of Agriculture and the 4-H Global Board meeting. She also presented Finland’s approach to sustainable forestry education and the national initiative “All Sixth Graders to the Forest” as a promising 4-H project.
The Finnish contribution attracted considerable interest from fellow 4-H organisations, opening up opportunities for knowledge exchange, inspiration and potential international collaboration.
The Summit also provided a valuable platform for networking, sharing experiences and research, building trust and strengthening relationships between 4-H organisations worldwide. Over 250 delegates attended the Summit from Asia, North America, Central and South America, Africa and Europe.
A shared commitment to the future
A key outcome was the joint Global 4-H Summit Declaration, presented by youth delegates at the closing ceremony – a powerful reminder that young people are not only the future, but active leaders in shaping it today.
We return home with new insights, inspiring ideas and strengthened international connections, ready to take 4-H youth development beyond borders.
A heartfelt thank you to Taiwan 4-H for your outstanding hospitality, generosity and friendship!
