In response to the rapid growth of the Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA), the organisation has announced the formation of a new Operations Team. 

Comprising six dedicated Officers, the team will work alongside the current committee to streamline communications, boost event planning, and enhance member wellbeing. With each officer bringing valuable hands-on experience, this dynamic expansion will help propel the YPHA forward as it continues to thrive and unite the next generation of horticultural leaders.

Beth Anderson, Events & Communication Support Officer.

Beth brings experience from her role in plant health in the Northwest, leading an inspiring team of STEM ambassadors. Outside of work, Beth is involved in community gardening projects across Manchester, fostering green spaces and local engagement. In her new role with YPHA, Beth will use her social media strategy and event experience to expand membership and help deliver impactful events. Beth commented, "I'm excited to be a part of such a special group that's become an essential part of the industry for the under 35s."

Ellie Marrian, Events Support Officer.

Ellie looks after the 2.5-acre kitchen garden at the renowned Doddington Hall in Lincolnshire. Ellie will work with the ops team to help coordinate, organise, and facilitate the wonderful events the YPHA does. Ellie commented, "I'm absolutely delighted to have been chosen to help support YPHA in such an exciting way. I look forward to working with the rest of the operations team and meeting many of our members at future events!" 

Holly Garrod, Policy and Safeguarding Officer.

As Project Coordinator for Robin Tacchi Plants in Norfolk, Holly's continued work with youth organisations identified a need within the YPHA team. Holly commented, "I'm delighted to have been selected to represent the YPHA. The YPHA has already provided me with some superb opportunities to grow and develop; I'm delighted to know I'll now be able to offer that back to members in aiding to futureproof our growing association." 

Olivia Blackburn, Administration Officer.

Olivia is the Office and Stock Process Manager at Coles Nurseries in Leicester. Outside of work, she is currently participating in the first YPHA Launch Success Challenge and is also the Discord Coordinator for Nurseries. She will manage the YPHA inbox and provide wider support to the team as needed. Olivia commented, "I'm very proud to join the ops team and help to further our mission of uniting people under 35 working in horticulture."

Tom Buckle, Member Wellbeing and Committee Support Officer.

Tom is a Plant Area Manager at Squires Garden Centres. He will work closely with our mental health first aiders and our charity partner, Perennial, to offer wellbeing support to our members. Tom commented, "After almost 14 years in horticulture and as a member of St John Ambulance, joining the new operations team at YPHA is an exciting opportunity."

There are several ways you can help the YPHA continue connecting with and supporting those who will be the future of horticulture.

We have a brand-new set of merchandise available for purchase through our website, including a fantastic mug and a really comfortable beanie hat, perfect for keeping you warm this winter.

We have our 'Sowing Stories' initiative, which aims to connect horticulturists of all ages through the gift of gardening books. There is still time to secure a surprise book of your own - either a vintage treasure or a newer author-signed title - delivered and wrapped before Christmas. All you need to do is pledge a minimum of £10 before Tuesday 10 December. 

There are also opportunities to sponsor us for 2025. Be it a Key Partner or a Supporter, the YPHA appreciates anything you can give to help us continue offering such fantastic experiences for under 35s working in horticulture. Email us an 'Expression of Interest' to admin@ypha.org.uk by Monday 02 December.

Visit www.ypha.org.uk to learn more about our work and about our new operations team and committee.