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ing him a $5,000 scholarship.

Ryals is a 16-year-old Vidalia High School junior, who joined the Toombs County 4-H program several years ago. “Joining 4-H has opened the door to so many experiences that have helped me discover new career paths and grow as a leader in my community,” he remarked. “I’ve been proud to help other students discover their leadership potential with the Rock Project and through Georgia and Toombs County 4-H.”

Through his work in 4-H, Ryals was able to overcome his fears of being ridiculed due to a speech impediment and embraced his potential for public speaking and leadership through opportunities in his county 4-H club. His passion drove him to serve as the state’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and Civic Engagement speaker and to facilitate workshops at the Georgia State Fair, ultimately leading to his current role as president of the Georgia 4-H State Board of Directors.

Inspired by 4-H’s values and motivated to address educational disparities, Ryals has helped grow The Rock Project to its 25-member cohort, through which he and other community leaders provide mentorship and resources to ensure college and career readiness for youth. To date, The Rock Project boasts a 100% college enrollment rate among its graduates.

“Kingston exemplifies what it means to be a 4-H’er – he saw a gap in college and career readiness among his peers and stepped in to solve it,” commented National 4-H Council President and CEO Jill Bramble. “Growing an organization to reach a 100% college enrollment rate is no small feat. We are honored to be part of his journey as he continues to help his peers become Beyond Ready for career and life.”

Ryals’s Toombs County 4-H Leader Riley Wimberly also spoke on this success. “Kingston is an excellent representation of what it means to be a 4-H member. He lives the 4-H motto, 'To Make the Best Better.' He has always represented Toombs County 4-H in the best way, and we are so proud of his accomplishments.”

Since 2010, the 4-H Youth in Action Awards recognize 4-H’ers who have applied the knowledge gained in 4-H to create a lasting impact in their communities. By receiving this award, Ryals is recognized for his work to support education and career development opportunities for African American youth, and for his leadership within Georgia 4-H and the local community. For his efforts, he will receive a $5,000 college scholarship and will spend the next year showcasing his work nationally, networking with 4-H alumni, and acting as an official 4-H spokesperson.

Following high school, Ryals plans to utilize the skills and values that he has learned through 4-H to pursue a degree in law and political science.