Exploring 4-H in Finland
Discover the impact of 4-H in Finland and how it shapes young leaders and entrepreneurs in a unique cultural setting.
The 4-H Phenomenon
4-H has become a global movement, cultivating leadership skills among youth not only in the United States but also across various nations. The Michigan State University Extension initiated this series in 2016 to shed light on the diverse countries and communities embracing the 4-H program. As we step into 2017, our focus shifts towards exploring the realm of 4-H in Finland.
An Insight into Finland's 4-H Program
Finland boasts two active Facebook pages dedicated to 4-H, namely Finlands svenska 4H and 4-H Suomi. These platforms offer a glimpse into the activities and videos shared by the Finnish 4-H community. Have you ever wondered what 4-H looks like in Finland? Dive into their pages to explore!
The Finnish Perspective
In 1926, Finland introduced 4-H Clubs, attracting around 60,000 adolescents aged 11 to 18. Similar to the U.S., the majority of club members are girls. The Finnish clubs engage in project work, record-keeping, meetings, exhibitions, demonstrations, athletic events, summer camps, and achievement days. Notably, Finnish 4-H stands out with its paid local leaders, supervised by district advisors.
Modern-Day Finland 4-H Federation
The Finnish 4-H Federation represents over 3,000 clubs nationwide, comprising more than 700,000 members. Finnish 4-H focuses on fostering entrepreneurial skills among its youth, enabling them to start their own ventures, self-employ, and earn income. By preparing youngsters for the workforce and instilling active citizenship values, Finland's 4-H program plays a pivotal role in shaping future leaders.
Embracing Cross-Cultural Experiences
States' 4-H International Exchange Programs offer an exciting opportunity for youth to immerse themselves in foreign cultures. Partnering with Suomen 4-H Litto, this initiative allows American delegates to live with Finnish families while gaining firsthand exposure to life in Finland. In return, Finnish youth have the chance to spend a month with host families in the United States, fostering mutual understanding and global connections.
Since 2012, over 30 Finnish youth have participated in exchange programs with the United States through States' 4-H. If you're intrigued by Finnish culture, consider applying for the summer 2019 exchange program. The application deadline is December 1, 2018, so seize this opportunity early!
Empowering Youth Globally
The Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development program play a crucial role in nurturing young leaders and global citizens. By offering educational experiences and resources, these programs equip youth with essential knowledge and skills. To explore the positive impact of Michigan 4-H on leadership, civic engagement, and global education, delve into our comprehensive Impact Report: “Developing Civically Engaged Leaders.”
Unlocking Global Learning Opportunities
For those eager to broaden their horizons beyond Finland, check out the Global and Cultural Education webpage by MSU Extension. To learn more about diverse 4-H programs and educational initiatives, reach out to your local MSU Extension office. The world of opportunities awaits!
Hey there, I'm Mohamed Rahat, your go-to writer for all things business and economy. Originally from Mumbai, now rocking it in Navi Mumbai. With a past life at Tata Power Co. Ltd., I'm here to unravel the mysteries of the economic world, one article at a time. Stick around for some mind-bending insights! Connect With Me