The 4-H pledge is often one of the first things new 4-H’ers learn when they join: “I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service, and my health to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.” Throughout their time in 4-H, youth are given countless opportunities to live out the values behind these words in meaningful and lasting ways. Recently, one Union County 4-H’er had the opportunity to take that pledge to the next level, all the way from Union County to Washington, D.C.

Akshita Kothapalli is a third-year Union County 4-H’er who has been actively involved in a wide range of 4-H opportunities. She participates in both the Lead Think Innovation 4-H Club and the Union County Teen Council 4-H Club, where she continues to grow her skills and explore her interests. When asked how she got started in 4-H, Akshita shared, “I started 4-H by joining my Lead Think Innovation 4-H Club and participating in small events, presentations, and expos. Over time, I got more involved in projects that matched my interests, especially in art and public speaking, which helped me grow my skills and confidence.”

Akshita regularly takes part in county and district presentations, 4-H record books, 4-H Expo, electric and technology projects, and more. However, it was our 4-H Creative Arts competition that marked the beginning of her journey to Washington, D.C. She consistently participates in the Creative Arts competition, earning blue ribbons and other accolades for her work.

National 4-H then put out a call across the country for talented young 4-H’ers interested in all areas of the arts, from painting and drawing to performing, inviting them to apply for the opportunity to attend one of three national 4-H events. Akshita answered that call and submitted her application. Among artists from across the nation, Akshita was selected and invited to attend the National 4-H Spark Celebration, where she would create her artwork live during the event. This was also the first year the event included live visual artists, making the opportunity even more meaningful. In that moment, Akshita was not only representing herself, but also Union County and North Carolina 4-H. When Akshita reflected on how she felt when she was selected, she stated, "It was an amazing honor to be selected as one of 3 artists nationwide. I felt proud to represent my state and share my passion for art on a national stage. It also made me realize how much 4-H has helped me grow and given me the opportunities I never expected."

The Spark Celebration is an annual event hosted by National 4-H Council. It brings together executives, board members, and key supporters to celebrate and highlight the impact of 4-H across the country. This year, Akshita and her art were part of that story.

Akshita and one chaperone were invited on an all-expenses-paid trip from Union County to Washington, D.C., where her role was to create two 5x7 art pieces live during the event. These pieces were then given away as gifts to key 4-H partners. When asked about the Spark Celebration, Akshita said, "The National 4-H Spark Celebration was an incredible experience. It was all about celebrating leadership, innovation, and creativity. Being in such an inspiring environment, especially at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., made the event feel really special and meaningful."

During the event, Akshita created artwork centered around the theme “America 250.” She explained, “During the event, I created live artwork based on the theme “America 250.” I created two pieces, one of a bald eagle and one of an astronaut on the moon. I chose these because they represent both the nation’s history and its future. The eagle symbolizes freedom and strength, while the astronaut reflects innovation and exploration.”

Creating art live brought a new kind of energy to her work. “Creating art live was both exciting and a little nerve-wracking at first. But as I got into the process, it became really rewarding to share my work in real time. It was cool to interact with people, explain my ideas, and see their reactions as the piece came together.” During and after the event, her artwork was displayed as part of the live showcase, allowing attendees to view the finished pieces and learn more about the creative process behind them. “My artwork was displayed during the event as part of the live art showcase, where attendees could see the final piece and learn about the process behind it. It was really rewarding to have my work be part of such a large, national celebration.”

Akshita shared that even before attending the event, she spent time preparing to make the most of the opportunity. She explained, “I prepared by practicing my techniques and planning out how I wanted my artwork to look and feel. I also created each piece beforehand at home so I could understand the full process and feel more confident executing it during the live event.”

When reflecting on her experience, Akshita shared that she learned many valuable lessons. She explained, “I learned that creativity isn’t just about making something look nice, it’s about expressing ideas and telling a story. I also realized that even a short amount of time can produce meaningful work, and that sharing your art can inspire others in ways you might not expect.” However, when asked about her favorite part of the experience, Akshita said, “My favorite part was connecting with other 4-H members and alumni, being surrounded by so many talented and passionate people. It was inspiring to see how everyone was making an impact in their own way.”

If Akshita were giving advice to other youth interested in similar opportunities, she would say, “I would say don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and try new things. Take advantage of every opportunity 4-H offers, even if it feels intimidating at first. You never know where it might lead.” She also hopes more people come to understand the full impact of 4-H, sharing, “I wish more people knew that 4-H is so much more than people expect. It’s not just about projects, it’s about leadership, creativity, and personal growth. It gives youth real opportunities to explore their passions and make a difference, it has something for everyone!”

Here in Union County, we are incredibly proud of Akshita, not only for her many local achievements, but also for having the courage to put herself out there and apply for this opportunity, and then earning it. Akshita is an exceptional 4-H’er who truly lives out the values of the 4-H pledge. Her story is a strong reminder that growth happens step by step, that confidence can lead to trying something new, and that saying yes to one opportunity can open the door to another.

We hope Akshita’s story inspires youth for years to come to try something new in 4-H, whether that is the Creative Arts competition, project record books, County Activity Day, or another opportunity. You never know where that first step might lead.