State Congress Highlights Outstanding Achievements of Forsyth County 4-H’ers

Heather Haines, ANR Agent, UGA Extension Forsyth County

A group of high school students and two adults dressed formally. — Forsyth County’s State Congress delegation included (R-L) Back row: Heather Haines (4-H Youth Development Agent), Mackenzie Kimbral, Rathna Malapati, Aarush Aritakula, Billy Wood (Volunteer Archery Coach) Front row: Alessandra Reneau, Sri Eesha Datla, and Maya Wood

Since 1942, the State Congress has been the premier event for high school-aged Georgia 4-H members, showcasing their talents, leadership, and community service. Held annually in Atlanta, this four-day event features a range of contests, recognizes scholarship recipients, and honors state winners across various projects and competitions. It also serves as an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of 4-H supporters, including professionals, donors, and public officials, to the success of the program in Georgia. This year’s event was held July 23-26 at Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia.

A highlight of the week is the Georgia 4-H Project Achievement competition, where over 200 young participants from across the state deliver 10 to 12-minute presentations in diverse project areas. They also meet with judges to discuss their project work that they listed in their portfolios, leadership experiences, and service contributions during the previous year. First-place winners are celebrated as Master 4-H’ers throughout the event.

Two high school young women posing for a picture at a baseball stadium. — Reneau and Kimbral tour Truist Park.

This year, Forsyth County was proudly represented by two talented youth: Alessandra Reneau from Alliance Academy for Innovation and Mackenzie Kimbral from Central Forsyth High School. Reneau distinguished herself by placing 2nd in the state in the Performing Arts—Piano Project, while Kimbral achieved a commendable 7th place in the Sports project. As full-time delegates for the event, Reneau and Kimbral also had the opportunity to do a behind-the-scenes tour at Truist Park.

Two adult men and four high school youth in formal attire — Forsyth County’s first place archery team poses for donor photos with a representative from the Project S.A.F.E. Committee.

The event also recognized winners in various special events, including shooting sports, judging teams, the Key Award, livestock educational contests, and cooking competitions. Forsyth County’s Special Event Master 4-H’ers included Aarush Aritakula (Alliance Academy for Innovation), Sri Eesha Datla (South Forsyth High School), Rathna Malapati (South Forsyth High School), and Maya Wood (East Forsyth High School). This talented team earned Master status by securing first place at the State Archery Match. Additionally, Datla received special recognition for being the top individual archer in the state.