The Aspiring Rural Leader Award was open to all members of a YFC committee during the membership year 2025-26. Three judges chose our five finalists for this year's award and we will find out at the Awards ceremony on 12 December 2026 who is the winner and runner up.
Taking on a role in your YFC (at county or club level) is an important responsibility and this award celebrates those committee members who have gone the extra mile to support or develop their clubs (or counties) and members.
Collingham YFC, Nottinghamshire
At just 15 years old, Daniel has already established himself as an impressive young leader in his club. When Collingham YFC faced a period of uncertainty, he instigated a club meeting to discuss its future and stepped up to fill the post of Vice Chair, helping to lead around 60 members.
He prides himself on being a good listener, ensuring members feel welcome and that their views are represented at both club and county level through his role on the Nottinghamshire YFC Competitions Committee. Daniel is passionate about encouraging others to get involved. His proudest achievement was inspiring two junior members to join him in the Cookery competition at Rally, helping them gain confidence and qualify for the national finals.
Whether promoting YFC at events, competing in public speaking, supporting new members or volunteering at shows and activities, Daniel leads by example. Ambitious, enthusiastic and respected by members of all ages, he embodies the values of YFC and already aspires to become a county and area leader.
Brigg & District YFC, Lincolnshire
As Chair of Brigg & District YFC, Joe has helped almost double membership and created a welcoming environment where every member feels valued and supported. Committed to creating an inclusive club, he has worked closely with parents and organisers to ensure a member with additional needs could fully participate in all activities.
He is also introducing systems to check in on members who have been absent from club meetings. One of Joe’s proudest achievements was organising the club’s Christmas Tractor Run, which raised more than £7,500 for local causes.
Outside of his club role, Joe has taken on several county-level positions, including Lincolnshire Fundraising Coordinator, Lincolnshire Rural Support Network (LRSN) Representative and County Roadshow team member, helping strengthen connections and opportunities across the county.
Joe leads by example, encouraging participation, supporting members to succeed and always putting others first. His dedication has taken both his club and county from strength to strength.
Pontfaen YFC, Brecknock
Sian’s dedication to YFC spans club, county and national level. Taking on multiple responsibilities including Treasurer, Press Officer, Trustee, Safeguarding Officer and Secretary, she has become the driving force behind many of Pontfaen YFC’s successes.
Alongside her club commitments, she serves as a County Trustee, represents Brecknock on the Wales YFC Competitions Committee and contributes to the Wales YFC 90th Celebration Committee, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to supporting opportunities for others.
Sian has transformed how members engage with the club. She introduced new communication systems, increased member involvement in decision-making and played a key role in organising the Illuminated Tractor Run, which raised £10,000 for the local community. Passionate about inclusion, she encourages members of all ages and abilities to take part, helping to build confidence and develop future leaders.
Balancing her YFC commitments with a demanding nursing career and young family, Sian consistently goes above and beyond, making a lasting impact on both her club and the wider YFC movement.
Withleigh YFC, Devon
Sophie has held many club roles, progressing to county level and most recently serving as Junior Vice Chair in Devon. She is widely respected for her approachable, encouraging and positive nature. Sophie works hard to ensure every member feels valued, supported and confident to take part in YFC opportunities.
She is particularly committed to mentoring younger members, helping them develop skills, build confidence and achieve their potential. Whether supporting competitions, attending county events or encouraging new leaders, she consistently puts others first and celebrates their successes.
Alongside her county responsibilities, Sophie remains an active club member, competitor and ambassador for YFC. Her enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment to both Young Farmers and agriculture have helped create a supportive environment.
Muston YFC, East Riding of Yorkshire
Since joining Muston YFC in 2025, Toby has quickly become a trusted source of support for members, parents and fellow officers. Appointed as a Vice Chair and Safeguarding Officer, Toby willingly stepped into additional responsibilities when needed, helping coordinate competition entries, communicate key information and support the club's day-to-day running, all while balancing the demands of a busy agricultural career.
Known for his maturity, positivity and willingness to go the extra mile, Toby has played a key role in building club spirit and encouraging participation. He organised extra tug of war training sessions, arranged specialist coaching and helped a largely inexperienced team achieve an impressive second place finish. Passionate about inclusion, he is particularly supportive of younger members and those with additional needs, ensuring everyone has opportunities to take part and succeed.
Through his leadership, dedication and genuine care for others, Toby has helped Muston YFC grow in confidence, ambition and success.