Jason is a volunteer with Park Lane Stables and loves it so much that in 2022 he decided to work towards a prestigious Young Equestrian Leaders Award.

This is a scheme for young people between 13 and 25, run by the British Equestrian Federation to develop skills gained through volunteering with member bodies of the BEF. These include The Pony Club and RDA centres.

There are three levels to progress through, Bronze, Silver and Gold, each requiring specific numbers of hours successfully volunteering and developing the skills needed, and within specific time frames. Awards are designed to reflect dedication to volunteering, and recognise life skills such as leading projects and people.

Gaining a YELA award, especially when it’s Gold, is a huge achievement.

Natalie says: “We’re all so proud of Jason. He’s put his heart and soul into this project”.

And in Jason’s (modest) words:

“It was volunteering at Park Lane that inspired me to go for my YELA. In 2022 I decided to start the Bronze award, which I enjoyed so much that I continued on to Silver and Gold. It’s been a big commitment, but the thought of inspiring other young people like myself really kept me going.

My volunteering roles have varied but include: leading a horse, sidewalking (to support a rider with a physical disability), and training new volunteers. But the one thing that’s been a constant is how much I’ve enjoyed working with the team and the horses alike. It’s an experience I hope more people will engage with, the feeling of volunteering is amazing.

I can remember how happy I was to get the email confirming that I had achieved the Gold YELA and knew that all that work was worth it in the end!”

Jason will be presented with his gold award at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in May, and we’ll be there to cheer him on!

Read more about the Young Equestrian Leaders Award