The Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) is proud to support the next generation of equine industry professionals through our Educational Scholarship Program.
Made possible through the generous support of donors and the sale of AEF lapel pins, these scholarships help members pursue post-secondary education and build meaningful careers in Alberta’s equine industry.
The AEF extends its sincere thanks to the individuals and organizations whose contributions have helped establish and sustain the Scholarship Fund. Their support creates opportunities for passionate young horse people to continue their education, develop their skills, and contribute to the future of the equine community.
This year, the AEF is pleased to announce Amber Petrica and Raydn Wright as the recipients of the 2026 Educational Scholarships.
Although their journeys with horses began in very different ways, both recipients share a deep commitment to learning, giving back, and improving the lives of horses and the people who work with them.
For Amber Petrica, horses have been a source of strength, comfort, and inspiration since she began riding at the age of eleven. Through life’s challenges, the barn became a place of refuge, where the steady presence of horses helped guide her through difficult times. Motivated by the impact horses have had on her life, Amber is dedicated to expanding her knowledge so she can provide the highest standard of care to the horses she works with.
This fall, Amber plans to attend the Equine Care and Management Certificate program at Olds College. Her goal is to apply what she learns to improve the well-being of every horse she encounters and, ultimately, to share that knowledge with future riders and horse owners. She hopes to help the next generation understand and practice excellent horsemanship while ensuring that every horse in her care leaves healthier and happier than when they arrived.
For Raydn Wright, a lifelong passion for horses has evolved into a commitment to education, competition, and community involvement. An AEF member since the age of nine, Raydn grew up inspired by stories of other young equestrians and dreamed of pursuing her own path within Alberta’s equine industry.
Her journey began with a family friend’s pony and later a small red mare that allowed her to join 4-H. Through horse camps, volunteering, and eventually working with horses, she gained valuable experience in horse care, training, responsibility, and leadership. This fall, Raydn will begin the Agricultural Sustainability program at Lakeland College while competing as a member of the college rodeo team. Looking ahead, she hopes to continue training horses, mentoring young riders, and promoting safe, respectful horsemanship while helping strengthen connections between agriculture and the public.
Both Amber and Raydn exemplify the passion, dedication, and leadership that help Alberta’s equine industry thrive. Their commitment to education and lifelong learning reflects the spirit of the AEF Scholarship Program and the many donors who make these opportunities possible.
The AEF congratulates Amber and Raydn on their achievements and wishes them continued success in their academic and equestrian pursuits. We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on Alberta’s equine community in the years to come.
About AEF Scholarships
The AEF proudly offers two scholarship opportunities to eligible members pursuing post-secondary education:
Educational Scholarship
Available to AEF members enrolled in, or accepted to, an equine-related program at an accredited Canadian post-secondary institution. Annual scholarships of $750 are available.
Industry Scholarship
Available to AEF members entering their first or second year of studies in Animal Health Technology (AHT) at an accredited Canadian post-secondary institution. Annual scholarships of $500 are available.
Applicants must be AEF members in good standing for at least 12 consecutive months, be over 16 years of age, and not have previously received an AEF Scholarship. Applications are accepted annually, with submissions due by May 31 and successful applicants notified by August 15.
Through the support of donors, lapel pin purchasers, and the equestrian community, the AEF Scholarship Program continues to invest in the future of Alberta’s horse industry, one student at a time.