Matias Habib, 17, of Sandwich in Kendall County, is the 2023 4-H Youth in Action Award for Agriculture recipient, sponsored by Bayer through the National 4-H Council. Habib will be honored nationally for developing a patent-pending bio-pesticide and start-up business through a 4-H entomology (study of insects) project. He is a senior student at IMSA (Illinois Math and Science Academy) in Aurora.
As a national winner, Habib will receive a $5,000 higher education scholarship and spend 2023 inspiring other youth by telling his 4-H story and celebrating his leadership. In addition, he will showcase his story nationally in a network with prominent 4-H alumni, and serve as the official 4‑H youth spokesperson for agriculture.
“After struggling with cognitive, social, and language barriers, 4-H gave me a place to connect and develop my passion for science and research,” said Matias. “Through 4-H, I met kids who shared my interests, especially in natural sciences. I learned how to develop a product that could help other farmers and gardeners facing the challenges my family faced in a safe and sustainable way.”
After moving to the U.S. as a child, Habib felt like an outsider and struggled with language barriers and social anxiety. He was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, but later realized those differences were vital tools that empowered his focus on science. Through the University of Illinois Extension 4-H science program he found community and confidence.
When his family’s orchard was attacked by the invasive Japanese Beetle, Habib began researching, testing, and developing a natural solution. His bio-pesticide spray, TerraBuster, since has shown exceptional results with eco-conscious production practices and ingredients. With the help of 4-H leaders, Habib provided funds and staff members for his growing business and is expanding his product to repellents for other pests that threaten health crops.
“Matias is a stellar example of a young person who has persevered through social challenges to create a path forward and show a great amount of entrepreneurship by creating his own bio-pesticide start-up business,” said Jackie Applegate, president of Bayer Crop Science North America. “At Bayer, we are proud to support many young people, just like Matias, as they learn and develop leadership skills that can make a positive difference in agriculture and in our world in the years ahead.”
Habib is one of four 2023 4-H Youth in Action award winners who were announced during national 4-H week, October 2-8. The other winners announced include Norah Carter of Pennsylvania (Healthy Living), Nicole Cash of Minnesota (STEM), and Sruthi Sudarsan of California (Civic Engagement).
Habib plans to pursue a career in which he can develop innovative solutions to protect the environment.
Launched in 2010, the 4-H Youth in Action Awards recognize 4-Hers who have applied the knowledge gained in 4-H to create a lasting impact in their communities while overcoming personal obstacles.
To learn more about the 4-H Youth in Action Awards and to view the other pillar winners from around the country, please visit: www.4-h.org/youthinaction.
—University of Illinois Extension