A Balmoral 4-H Club member is bringing home top honours after a standout performance at this year’s provincial communications event.
Peyton Marohn earned first place in the Junior One-Person Visual category at the 2026 4-H Manitoba Provincial Communications Extravaganza, held April 18 in Brandon.
Her presentation, Mexican Migrations, explored the remarkable journey of humpback whales, which travel thousands of kilometres each year from the cold waters of Alaska to the warm coastal regions of Mexico to give birth.
The idea for the project came from a firsthand experience.
“I was inspired by going to Mexico and seeing the amazing creatures in person,” Marohn said.
She detailed how the massive marine mammals rely on baleen plates to filter-feed on small prey, demonstrated how whales communicate through song, and explained why warmer southern waters provide a safer environment for newborn calves.
Bringing the topic to life, she incorporated a series of hands-on visual elements, including a three-foot paper mâché whale, a softball-sized model eye, and baleen plates crafted from a broom to demonstrate how the whales’ strainer-like teeth function.
The construction process proved to be one of the biggest challenges.
“I thought the paper mâché whale was the most challenging as it took a week to make. There were many layers to build the structure,” she said. “The baleen plate model was easy as I glued fish to a broom to describe what their teeth are like.”
Her display was rounded out with poster boards featuring facts and photos that supported her presentation.
Having family support added to the experience at provincials.
“I was excited because I had my cousins Katie and Kenzie there to cheer me on. They were very encouraging,” she said.
Marohn said winning the category was a proud moment for both herself and her club.
“I was proud to win and represent my 4-H club,” she said.
She added the experience has helped build confidence that will extend beyond 4-H.
“I’ve learned to be a confident speaker and presenter. It will help me be ready to share my ideas in the future,” she said.
Other Balmoral 4-H members also took part in the provincial event, including Reese Moore, Melodie Versavel and Katie Marohn, contributing to a strong showing for the club.
The annual Provincial Communications Extravaganza showcases top speakers from across Manitoba and highlights the confidence, creativity and communication skills developed through the 4-H program.
