Predictor Game
NAMEF President Richard Frankle

FEI Awards 2024 Winners: Namibian Equestrian Federation

25 November 2024

‘Enabling Through the Horse’ is helping children in the African country…

The Namibian Equestrian Federation (NAMEF) is looking to build on the success of its innovative development programme after receiving the FEI Inspire Award for 2024.

 

Supported by FEI Solidarity and First Rand Namibia Foundation Trust, ‘Enabling Through the Horse’ creates opportunities for differently abled communities in the African country through equestrian sport. The FEI Inspire Award is designed to showcase the incredible spirit and determination of individuals or organisations that serve as role models, demonstrating that anything is possible.

 

 

NAMEF President Richard Frankle received the award from FEI President and Chair of the FEI Solidarity Committee, Ingmar De Vos (pictured below), during the 2024 FEI Awards Gala presented by Longines.

 

“This recognition will make a huge impact on the Federation, the programme, to the children, and the horses,” said Frankle.

Sensitivity and intuition

‘Enabling Through the Horse’ starts at therapeutic riding level with the aim of advancing to the Para athlete level (dependant on the athlete’s level of ability), over a four-year development cycle.

 

Five schools were chosen to be part of the programme in the Khomas Region of Namibia and 30 children passed an assessment undertaken by both occupational therapists, physiotherapists and educational psychologists. These children entered the programme that started in January 2024.

 

The programme, under the tutorage of Susan de Meyer, underlines the wonderful characteristics of the horse in exuding sensitivity and intuition. Meanwhile, the grooming and riding helps fine as well as gross motor skills.

 

 

Frankle added: “We are so grateful that Susan de Meyer’s work is being recognised through this award. She is the one with the teaching skills, producing incredible results through her endeavours and patience. One girl was completely non-verbal and after two weeks of the programme spoke her first words. Another boy had no confidence, and it took him three months to get on the back of a horse – and now he is riding and absolutely loves it.

 

“It is amazing to see the impact such a large animal can have on children. Initially, many children are scared, but as they interact with the horse, they begin to understand its true nature. This helps them realise that while the world can be intimidating, there are also parts of it that are safe and welcoming. Horses are completely non-judgmental; they accept you for who you are. They connect deeply with children, becoming one with them.”

 

The other nominees for the 2024 award were Georgina Urwin of Great Britain for her work with Summerfield Stables – Horses in the Community, the brilliant Dr Salom Nghinamito of Namibia as an FEI Permitted Treating Veterinarian, and the iconic Lucinda Green of Great Britain for her cross-country coaching skills with the Lucinda Green Academy.

 

Subscribe to the FEI’s YouTube channel for more great athlete interviews, live action, and features that reflect the rich diversity of the equestrian world…

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