I'm Lily Q from Contra Costa County and I was declared the Overall Champion of the National Fashion Revue Constructed Category at the 4-H Family & Consumer Science (FCS) National Championship 2024 in San Antonio, Texas. I have a passion for sewing and fashion. I have been learning how to sew since I was 8 years old. Due to my disability I wanted to learn how to alter clothing because it's hard to find clothes straight off the rack that fit me. I joined 4-H three years ago and have been a part of the sewing and textile project. My sewing mentors are Teri and Allie. They have taught me so much over the years. My goal at Nationals was to make them proud!
This past year I made a stylish faux leather jacket and competed in the leather creations category for my second year in Fashion Revue. It took me a total of 63 hours to complete the jacket. It was the most challenging garment I had made so far. I placed first at the County level then advanced to State and won there as well. After that I qualified to go to Nationals and represent California 4-H. I was so excited to travel to Texas and compete against other teens from around the country. I was notified that I had to construct a garment to go under my leather jacket, so I made a wrap polyester dress in a month.
The 4-H Family & Consumer Science National Championship 2024 was held in San Antonio, Texas on January 10-13, 2024. It was a great experience to meet so many other teens who enjoy fashion like me. There were several workshops, I learned about consumer waste and how I can do my part to minimize it, I participated in sewing a quilt block to add to a beautiful quilt for Quilts of Valor. Plus, we had a state pin exchange! I collected pins from 12 different states! I made new friends who share an appreciation for sewing. I competed against 14 other contestants. They all had well-constructed garments with each one showing their individual personalities. We had to do an interview and modeling of our garments. During the fashion show we got to walk down the catwalk and show off our lovely outfits to our family and friends. Once our contest was complete, we had a free day to go sightseeing and shopping. We were walking distance from The Alamo and the gorgeous San Antonio Riverwalk.
My favorite part
The last day of the nationals was the award banquet. My favorite part of the competition was the awards because you're so excited to hear the results but then nervous too. Sitting there waiting for your name to be called is both thrilling and terrifying. The competition was so good, you really don't know who the judges are going to pick. Every contestant there looked and sounded great. 2nd place overall went to Olivia, the other contestant from California 4-H. I was so happy for her. Then when they announced first place and said my name I was so excited and surprised. I received a ribbon and a jewelry box. California 4-H took the top two spots for National Fashion Review. It was a fantastic experience that I will never forget!
I highly recommend to all fellow 4-H'ers: "If you get the chance to go to Nationals, believe in yourself and do it!"
-To Make the Best Better-
Lily Q