BEVA's One to Watch Award: Celebrating the Future of Equine Veterinary Medicine
Recognizing excellence and nurturing the future stars of equine care is a powerful way to ensure the continued advancement of veterinary medicine. The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) takes this principle seriously with its inaugural One to Watch Award. This award highlights the talent and dedication of early-career veterinary professionals poised to make a significant impact on the equine industry.
Meet the Finalists
Every year, numerous skilled vets enter the field, but a few stand out for their commitment to horse welfare, clinical skill, and leadership. This year's finalists for the BEVA One to Watch Award are no exception, chosen from ten nominations UK-wide after an intense evaluation process. The chosen four exemplify the bright future of veterinary medicine.
- Hannah Olivia Foster is recognized for her impactful work with the British Horse Society, building strong client relationships and upholding an impressive work ethic. It's said she approaches every day with the demeanor of someone who doesn’t need a coffee to energize everyone around her.
- Archie Moffat has collected admiration from clients and colleagues at Stable Close Equine Practice for his thoughtful and intelligent clinical approach. They say working with Archie is as refreshing as a horseback ride through the Scottish Highlands.
- Sarah Thornton stands out for her broad skill set and business acumen at Hook Norton Vets, all while being just two years into her career. Her calm and sympathetic nature is believed to have a tranquilizing effect on even the most anxious horse.
- Harriett Bartram-Baird, known for her selflessness and reliability at Ballinger Equine, has proven herself an exceptional clinician whose positive impact is felt by everyone around her.
The Award Process
The selection of the One to Watch Award finalists is rigorous. The judging panel comprises BEVA careers committee members, senior vets, and external industry representatives, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of each candidate's professional prowess. The finalists were chosen based on their passion for equine care, promising clinical skills, and leadership potential.
The Importance of Industry Awards
Awards like BEVA's One to Watch are crucial for the veterinary profession. They serve three key purposes:
- Recognition: Highlighting outstanding talent encourages young vets to aim for excellence and instills confidence in their abilities.
- Professional Development: The winners and finalists gain exposure to professional networks and career-enhancing opportunities they might not otherwise access.
- Industry Growth: By spotlighting innovative professionals, such awards promote forward-thinking approaches crucial for elevating the field.
Anticipation Builds for the BEVA Congress
The winner will be announced at the BEVA Congress, scheduled from September 10-13, 2025, in Birmingham. This prestigious event gathers veterinary professionals eager to celebrate the achievements of both past and present. Attendees can expect a slew of activities, presentations, and yes, an award ceremony that might rival the excitement of race day at Ascot.
For those keen to witness the unveiling of this year’s rising star, tickets are available at www.bevacongress.org. Sneaking in won’t work, so unless you’re good friends with a horse capable of jumping fences, we suggest booking in advance!
The Future is Bright
Ultimately, the BEVA's One to Watch Award embodies the motivations that drive the veterinary profession: excellence, dedication, and innovation. By supporting young professionals in their early career stages, BEVA ensures that equine care advances not only through current knowledge but through encouraging the enthusiasm and fresh perspectives of those just entering the field.
In the words of Gemma Dransfield, a BEVA council member, the award celebrates individuals who are setting new standards in equine veterinary care and supports the development of their ongoing careers. With excellent mentorship and opportunities, who knows, maybe one of these talented individuals will discover the next groundbreaking treatment—or perhaps just figure out how to make a horse enjoy its vet visit!
For reference and more details, visit the source: BEVA News.




















