Youth Member of the Year

Youth Member of the Year

The AjPHA Youth Member of the Year must embody the spirit of community involvement, volunteer work, scholarship and leadership as a well-rounded individual. This award does not require excellence in show ring competition, although the nominee can still be an active competitor.

How to Apply

Eligibility

  • Current AjPHA member, 18 years or younger as of January 1 of the year applying.
  • May not be a current National AjPHA president, president-elect, vice president, secretary or treasurer
  • A nominee may presented for consideration until the nominee wins or exceeds the age limit

Application

The following must be provided on the application:

  • APHA and AjPHA involvement
  • Other equine involvement
  • Community service/volunteer work
  • Academic information including a transcript
  • 500-word essay on your education plan and goals
  • 3 letters of recommendation

Awards

The AjPHA Youth Member of the Year will receive a custom-designed belt buckle and a $1,000 scholarship.

Apply Today
Youth Member of the Year, Natalie Snapp.

2023 Youth Member of the Year

Natalie Snapp

Natalie Snapp, a 15-year-old from Bellefontaine, Ohio, is the 2023 AjPHA Youth Member of the Year. The Youth Member of the Year award is presented annually to a Youth member who supports the Paint breed while also being involved in community activities.

An AjPHA member since 2021, Natalie is president of the Ohio Paint Horse Youth Club and served as Zone 8 representative for AjPHA. She’s hosted a Youth-specific event at nearly every Ohio and Zone 8 show since taking club office and also assisted with events at the 2023 APHA Eastern National Championship. Natalie has shown Paints since 2022 and won a national championship in 2023 with Stuck In Neutral.

Outside of AjPHA, Natalie is an active member of the Youth Equestrian Development Association and 4-H. The high-school freshman is a member of six clubs and holds leadership positions in three of them. Her community service is impressive, including volunteering at a local therapeutic riding facility, fall festival, elementary field day, trash pick-ups and more.