The Lakeland Scruffy Puppy 4-H club held their 2025 communications event at Ardmore School, where participants showcased their public speaking skills in front of a panel of judges. Participants had the option to choose their own topic and present with visual aids or deliver a speech, including an impromptu speech where they had to choose a discussion topic on the spot.
Club Leader Melanie Miko expressed her pride in the kids’ improvement and confidence, noting the growth she has seen in them throughout the year. Participants spoke on a variety of topics, ranging from Métis beading to Irish draught horses to making chocolate chip cookies. Judge Raymond Cowell commended the kids for their bravery in speaking in front of a crowd and panel of judges.
Winners of the event included Hailey Charters for junior presentation on snowmobiling, Sara Miko for intermediate presentation on her heart horse Jewel, and Leah Dicks for senior presentation on equine therapy. The judges encouraged the participants to continue pushing themselves out of their comfort zones and developing their public speaking skills for the future.
