The team at The Vet Space is proud to celebrate Vedia Barnett, founder and guiding force behind our mission, on receiving the 2026 Georgia Women Veteran Impact Award from the Georgia Department of Veterans Service.

Vedia has been advocating for veterans for over a decade, long before The Vet Space became a formal nonprofit. What began as a commitment to ensure that veterans—especially women veterans—felt seen, heard, and supported has grown into a mission that continues to inspire and shape her life, and the work of everyone at The Vet Space.

This recognition is not just for the programs we run, connecting women veterans to community, nature, and healing—it is a moment that shines a light on something we hold dear: access to nature as a vital form of restoration and empowerment. Our advocacy, including efforts to secure free state park passes for veterans, now has a larger platform, allowing us to continue pushing for change and visibility where it matters most.

Vedia’s work is deeply personal, rooted in the values instilled by her parents and the mentorship of women veterans who guided her early journey. But most importantly, it is fueled by the trust of the women veterans who share their stories and healing with The Vet Space—a trust the team cherishes and never takes lightly.

In a time when women veterans’ service is often overlooked or actively challenged, Vedia’s leadership is a reminder of the importance of representation, resilience, and advocacy on the front lines. Awards may recognize achievements, but the true reward lies in seeing veterans reconnect, find community, and remember they are not alone.

There is still more work to do—and The Vet Space is just getting started.