Yasmina’s goal is to compete at the 2028 Paralympics

13 year old Yasmina has a condition called Friedreich’s ataxia, which progressively damages the nervous system. During lockdown she lost the ability to walk unaided when her physiotherapy sessions were interrupted. She decided to try horse riding to strengthen her back muscles and hopefully avoid a back operation.

Yasmina, who’s a wheelchair user, has fallen in love with riding: “When I’m horse riding, I’m just like any other kid.” It’s also strengthened her back muscles so much that she no longer needs that operation.

Her story is an uplifting one but it will resonate with many of the people who come to us.

Our participants are all ages and, just like in any community, many live with mental or physical difficulties. Some obvious, many not. For some, time spent here is an opportunity to connect. Horses are completely non-judgemental, so they are fantastic confidence-givers. And for others, like Yasmina, riding is exercise and physical therapy, with the weight of the rider supported by the horse and ‘side walkers’ to ensure their safety.

“Yasmina is so determined, and so resilient”, says Natalie.

Will that determination carry her through to the 2028 Paralympics? We say, watch this space.

Watch Yasmina’s story in this short clip on BBC London.