Sarah Maloney - 4-H Canada Youth Advisory Committee Term Ending
My name is Sarah Wollersheim (Maloney) and I had the pleasure of being the BC representative on the 4-H Canada Youth Advisory Committee since 2024 and am now closing tenure at the end of February 2026.
What is YAC and what do they do?
YAC (Youth Advisory Committee) is made up of 10 4-Hers from around Canada who help at a national level and within their province. Through my role I participate at a provincial level on the Provincial Council in an ex officio role and helping with the ambassador program. There is also opportunity at a national level to assist in policy development and decision making with collaboration with the 4-H Canada staff and board. I have sat on national working groups and committees to discuss things like board development and youth safety.
What is a highlight of my time on YAC?
In my YAC role I had the opportunity to travel to Ottawa and Toronto to help plan and facilitate Members forum and Citizenship Congress alongside 4-H Canada staff. Those trips were the highlight of my time on YAC. Getting to observe and participate in the background of a national conference was a great learning experience and also allowed me to connect with the wonderful staff. Also getting to connect with members from across Canada was a high point and I can’t wait to see how all the 4-Hers evolve.
What did I get from my time on YAC?
Being a 4-H member for 17 years I have felt a lot of my development is a result of the program but my time on YAC has taken it to the next level. YAC allowed me to focus in on my personal development as it relates to my career and going into adulthood. I have felt myself come out of my shell and be able to facilitate large groups of people in activity and conversational panels with industry professionals for example. Also, though my participation on the provincial council and 4-H Canada working groups I have learned an abundance about governance and finances. Collaborating with staff, leaders and board members has given me prime networking opportunities for life.
How can I be a YAC?
The YAC selection process in BC starts with the Ambassador program. To be eligible for the role you must have completed the Ambassador program and a registered 4-H member between 18-23 years old. After application members will have to undergo an interview process. If you are a senior member and want another way to stay involved at a higher level than just a club, I would highly recommend the ambassador and then YAC roles to you.
As I wrap up my final days in my role I reflect on the amazing memories and connections I have made I am so glad I was selected to hold this position. I am looking forward to my last National conference at the start of February at 4-H Canada Leadership Summit in Calgary. It is a full circle moment with my first event in 2024 being Leadership Summit in Vancouver
In March 2026 the new BC representative Victoria Pitsiaeli will start, and I wish her nothing but the best. BC is in great hands with Victoria as their representative as she was an outstanding ambassador and an overall outstanding person.