Message from Executive Director, Sonia Dantu

Where has the past year gone and how are we already enjoying the longer days and warmer nights of summer? Time seems to pass us by at a rapid pace and I often find myself saying, “Slow down, breathe, and make the most of each day.” Times are still challenging for so many, but hopefully with the change in seasons, we have new growth and activities to look forward to.

On March 18, it was such a pleasure for our team to host our fifth annual Stride With Us in person and recognize our 2022 Annual Award winners. We haven’t had the opportunity to see each other for such a long time it seems, and being together in person, laughing, celebrating, and catching up, brought out feelings of happiness in all of us! Thank to you everyone who attended and to our supporters of this event, particularly Acera Insurance, for their ongoing support of the

Annual Awards. We are extremely proud of our community and the amazing individuals that are part of it.

As we transition throughout the year, we will continue to work on ensuring the AEF membership experience is a positive, simple journey. Designing that experience is a top priority for us because our members matter. Part of this includes continuous improvement to the new database and website. (If you haven’t visited our site yet, please do so! We invite your comments and suggestions.)

Building our outreach through the community will happen by hosting events and participating in trade shows. Building stronger relationships through exciting recreational trail projects and educational offerings, both online and in person, will be a priority. Our relationship with Equestrian Canada will continue to ensure those who participate in sport have a meaningful experience.

Aligned with our 2023-2028 strategic and operational plan, we will concentrate on:

· Continuing to strengthen and grow our membership base,

· Fostering and building a sense of community,

· Enhancing the membership experience and providing a way for members to provide input,

· Revamping the website to ensure a positive experience, membership retention, brand repositioning, and a continual refresh of the online store,

· Reaching non-members in the province to encourage new membership and support for the Alberta equine industry,

· Supporting the Alberta equine industry with current, ongoing, and future needs, and

· Continuing to meet the Government of Alberta’s legislative and accountability requirements for funding.

Some of this will be accomplished over the next five years by focusing on our goals to:

· Increase awareness of the value of membership,

· Ensure robust learning opportunities for the equine community,

· Expand leadership in environmental and social responsibility,

· Ensure strong team performance,

· Ensure organizational stability through sustainable revenue.

We welcome you to ride and drive along with us, and we thank you for your constant, ongoing support. AEF would not be able to accomplish its goals without our membership.

On that note, now is the time of year we all appreciate – creating summer adventures. Whether you are heading out to the mountains for a packing trip, a day ride, a competition, or planning a BBQ and spending time with friends, family, and your equine pals, take the time to make the most out of this season. AB