10/12/2026
Congratulations to Annebelle Matherly on being selected for the 2026 Teen Leadership Council (TLC) at the Southwest Virginia 4-H Educational Center! 🍀
# Ridgeview High School Student Selected for Statewide 4-H Teen Leadership Council
**DICKENSON COUNTY, VA** – Annebelle, a sophomore at Ridgeview High School, has been selected to serve on the Teen Leadership Council (TLC) at the Southwest Virginia 4-H Educational Center. This accomplishment recognizes her continued growth, dedication, and leadership throughout her five years of involvement in Virginia 4-H.
The Teen Leadership Council is part of a statewide 4-H leadership initiative designed to empower young people to become confident, capable leaders within their communities. Council members take an active role in planning events, leading educational activities, mentoring younger 4-H members, and supporting district and 4-H Educational Center programs. They also serve as youth representatives and ambassadors for their respective 4-H Educational Centers.
Through their service, TLC members develop valuable real-world skills, including communication, teamwork, decision-making, event planning, problem-solving, and leadership. The program provides opportunities for teens to have a meaningful voice in 4-H programming while preparing them for future leadership roles in their schools, communities, and careers.
Annebelle's 4-H journey began five years ago when she participated in the Wolfpack After the Bell Program as a fifth-grade student. At the time, she was extremely shy and rarely spoke in group settings. However, her positive experiences with 4-H encouraged her to attend Junior 4-H Camp, an experience that became a turning point in her personal development.
After returning home from her first camp, Annebelle demonstrated a remarkable transformation. She became more outgoing, confident, and willing to engage with others. What began as participation in an after-school program grew into a lasting commitment to 4-H.
Since that first summer, Annebelle has returned to 4-H camp each year, progressing from camper to Counselor-in-Training and eventually to Teen Counselor. Through these experiences, she has developed leadership skills, formed lasting friendships, and become a positive role model for younger 4-H members.
Annebelle is also currently working on her application to become a Virginia 4-H All Star, an honor that recognizes 4-H members for their accomplishments, leadership, and commitment to service.
Her selection to the Teen Leadership Council represents another important milestone in her 4-H journey and demonstrates the positive impact youth development programs can have on young people.
Annebelle's story is an example of how 4-H helps young people discover their potential. From a quiet fifth grader hesitant to speak to others to a teen leader representing her 4-H Educational Center, her journey reflects the 4-H motto, **"To Make the Best Better."**
Dickenson County 4-H congratulates Annebelle on this accomplishment and looks forward to seeing her continue to grow as a leader and make a positive difference in her community.
