Each year, the Foundation for the Preservation of Honey Bees challenges 4-H members from all over the country to submit an essay on a topic related to honey bees. Each state chooses its finalist and submits his or her essay to the Foundation for judging. All entrants receive a relevant book on honey bees, beekeeping, or honey and the winners receive cash awards and an invitation to attend the 2026 American Beekeeping Federation Conference and Tradeshow, expenses paid by ABF. This year, we had 17 entries and it was difficult for the Trustees to pick just three. Below you will find this year’s winners.
First Place: Nathan Brhel, Nebraska
Nathan Brhel is a seventh-grade home-school student who lives in Fairfield, Nebraska. He is involved in 4-H, FFA, band, home-school co-op, and volunteers as a living historian at the Stuhr museum. He plays the piano, violin, and saxophone, and enjoys several hobbies including chess, learning about the natural world of history, leatherworking, drawing, reading, raising unique plants, taking care of poultry and indoor pets, and raising edible mushrooms.
You may read Nathan’s entire essay at: https://preservationofhoneybees.org/first-place-nathan-brhel-nebraska/
Second Place: Lauren Petronella, Ohio
Lauren is 18 years old and lives in Clyde, Ohio. She is excited to pursue a career in apicultural research and study the factors impacting honey bee health. She got involved in beekeeping when she was 12 years old through the 4-H program. Since then, she has gone on to receive her Master Beekeeper Certification from the University of Montana and has won a student award for her research on a nosema vaccine at the American Bee Research Conference. Her ultimate goal is to earn a Ph.D. and advocate for bees through research and outreach.
You may read Lauren’s entire essay at: https://preservationofhoneybees.org/second-place-lauren-petronella-ohio/
Third Place: Aarsheya Gunjal, Georgia
Aarsheya Gunjal is an 11th-grader at Sprayberry High School who has been a dedicated member of Georgia 4-H for seven years. Throughout her involvement in 4-H, she has developed a strong passion for agriculture and environmental sustainability. Living in Georgia with her family, Aarsheya has written several essays on these topics, reflecting her commitment to preserving the earth from pollution. As part of her efforts to engage youth in agriculture, she has led farm tours across Georgia, helping to inspire the next generation about the importance of agriculture and environmental stewardship. Aarsheya has also gained hands-on experience working at local farms, further deepening her understanding of sustainable practices. Through these experiences, she believes that every individual, no matter how small their actions may seem, can make a significant difference. She is driven to create a positive impact on her community and the environment, encouraging youth to get involved and take action.
You may read Aarsheya’s entire essay at: https://preservationofhoneybees.org/third-place-aarsheya-gunjal-georgia/
