Our Mission: Powering Up at YES

Registration is Open

Youth interested in attending the Youth Excellence Seminar, sponsored by Wrangler and John Deere and scheduled for July 8-10 in Amarillo, Texas, can register now.

“The AQHYA leadership board and I could not be more excited to host this year’s Youth Excellence Seminar at our headquarters in Amarillo, Texas,” says AQHYA President Abigail Eddy of Rocheport, Missouri. “This year, our mission for YES is all about powering up to bring together the brightest, most passionate young leaders in the AQHYA community. We’re focused on igniting new connections, inspiring fresh ideas, and fueling the energy of our youth. We can’t wait to share incredible workshops, engaging speakers, and unforgettable experiences that will power us all up for the future of the American Quarter Horse. The countdown to YES is on!”

YES welcomes American Quarter Horse Youth Association members and nonmembers, ages 10 to 18, to experience a three-day, action-packed event that offers valuable leadership skills, inspiring speakers and tons of fun. YES attendees will be encouraged and inspired while they develop key skills and build lasting relationships.

Hosted by the 2024-25 AQHYA officers and directors, YES offers a wide variety of activities and workshops focused on developing the youth in our industry. If you’ve never attended YES, it’s an amazing opportunity to meet new friends, grow your leadership skills and learn more about your American Quarter Horse community.

2025-2026 AQHYA Officer and Director Applications

Voting delegates representing the affiliates will elect the 2025-26 AQHYA officers and directors during YES. Members from AQHYA’s 11 regions will also elect up to three directors during the conference to represent their respective regions for the next year. AQHYA members interested in running for an officer or regional director position can find the Guide to Campaigning and the 2025-26 AQHYA Officer and Director online application form at www.aqha.com/yes.

AQHYA ASPIRE Award

Also, don’t forget to apply for the AQHYA ASPIRE Award, a $1,000 award for an AQHYA member who excels in leadership and service. The award assists in developing and improving scholarship, leadership, community interest and participation of young horsemen and -women. The award is presented at YES and the deadline to apply is May 15. Apply online at www.aqha.com/aspire-award.

YES Travel Grants

The American Quarter Horse Youth Association and AQHA International Department are proud to offer travel grants to be awarded to 2025 Youth Excellence Seminar attendees. Eight international grants and four domestic grants will be offered to attendees to assist in offsetting travel expenses for those wanting to attend YES. The application process includes basic information, standard questions and one letter of recommendation. Applicants will be required to provide a personal biography, describe their involvement within the equine industry, describe future plans and explain what it would mean to attend YES. International applications will also be asked international-specific questions to assist with travel. Applications are available at www.aqha.com/yes and are due April 30.

2025 YES Keynote Speaker – Tyler Schuster

Tyler Schuster is a fifth-generation rancher from Brackettville, Texas. A graduate of Tarleton State University and Texas A&M University, Schuster currently serves as the assistant director of development for Davis College at Texas Tech University. Prior to this role she was the leadership development manager

for Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. When not traveling, Schuster can be found working alongside her mom on her family's ranch or recording new episodes of her podcast, Basically Famous.

For more information on the 2025 Youth Excellence Seminar, visit www.aqha.com/yes.

Learn more about the American Quarter Horse Youth Association here.

About the Sponsors

Wrangler®, of Kontoor Brands (NYSE: KTB), has been an icon in authentic American style for over 75 years. With a rich legacy rooted in the American West, Wrangler is committed to offering superior quality and timeless designs. Wrangler and AQHA members share the same spirit and appreciation for the Western way of life. Wrangler is proud to be an AQHA corporate partner – and the official western jeans and western shirts of AQHA.

John Deere is driven by integrity, quality, commitment and innovation as it provides customers around the world with work equipment. John Deere has been a trusted supplier of equipment and service to the equine industry for generations. As an AQHA member, you can get savings on select John Deere tractors, utility vehicles, mowers, commercial worksite equipment, implements and more. Call (866) 678-4288 for more information and to qualify for your savings.

AQHA news and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more information visit www.aqha.com/news or subscribe to our news text "AQHA In the Know" for the latest Association updates.