The Angus Foundation is pleased to announce Drake Yon of Ridge Spring, South Carolina, as the representative for the 2026 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Young Cattlemen’s Conference (YCC). Yon, a lifelong Angus breeder, will join a class of emerging industry leaders who will travel nationwide in June to engage with all facets of beef production, policy and consumer relations.
Yon has been actively involved in the Angus breed since childhood. His years in the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA), service within the South Carolina Angus Association and participation in the Beef Leaders Institute have shaped him into an emerging leader.
Today, he is an integral part of his family’s multigenerational operation, overseeing their breeding program and data collection.
“Drake not only has an outstanding work ethic, but a very inquisitive mind to learn the utilization of new technology for more efficiently producing food that meets our consumer’s expectations,” said Samuel Hands of Triangle H of Garden City, Kansas, and mentor to Drake. “As a young leader in our agriculture industry, Drake also possesses excellent communication and people skills.”
Yon’s selection reflects not only his involvement within Angus, but his extensive industry leadership. From speaking on industry panels to serving on the South Carolina Cattlemen’s Association Board, including his role as legislative chair, he has actively engaged in policy discussions affecting animal health and industry innovation.
His work with the South Carolina Farm Bureau has advanced resolutions supporting rural health access and agricultural land protections. His efforts extend beyond policy, often hosting groups on the farm from dietitians and chefs to state lawmakers to provide transparent, on‑the‑ground education about beef production. A passionate advocate for the story behind the Certified Angus Beef® brand, Yon frequently leads farm tours and industry visits.
“I look forward to the relationships formed through the YCC experience,” Yon said in his application. “Connecting with fellow cattlemen from across the country, hearing new perspectives, and learning more effective ways to advocate for our industry is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity. Every interaction with policymakers is a chance to tell our family’s story and work toward positive change. I’m honored for the opportunity to represent the Angus breed.”
The YCC program provides participants with a robust understanding of the cattle industry from feedyards and packing plants to retail and policy development. The Angus Foundation is proud to sponsor an Angus breeder each year.
For more information about the Angus Foundation or the Young Cattlemen’s Conference, visit www.Angus.org.
