As we immersed ourselves in the world of natural horsemanship, facilitating sessions both in South Africa and in the U.S., we began to witness something extraordinary. The healing potential of these experiences went far beyond the stables, sparking a profound desire within us to extend this transformative power to those who needed it most.

Through his mentorship, Simon unearthed hidden talents and ignited a spark of possibility in those he guided. Several Veterans he mentored, individuals who had not previously considered a career in the equine industry, discovered a newfound sense of purpose and acquired immediately employable skills. Simon’s mentorship was instrumental in helping them realize their potential, leading to prestigious placements as assistant trainers and transforming their lives both personally and professionally.

Inspired by these transformations, Simon and Yvette began to recognize a pressing need within the equine industry. The Veterans Simon had mentored possessed not only a deep passion for working with horses but also incredible potential. However, they noticed a lack of formal vocational training opportunities that could help more talented Veterans experience similar transformations beyond the one-on-one mentorship he had provided over the years. This realization ignited an idea — a vision to create a structured and accredited pathway for veterans to harness their passion for horses, acquire valuable skills, and embark on fulfilling careers.

The desire to share these life-changing experiences and mentorship opportunities led to a pivotal moment. Airforce Veteran Justin Trammell, whose life had been profoundly transformed through equine connection, joined forces with Simon and Yvette. Together, they shared a passionate commitment to empowering individuals through natural horsemanship education. With a mission to create a program that would expand upon the transformative model they had witnessed, they set out to bring their vision to life. From this shared dedication, the Elite Vocations Veterans vocational horsemanship program emerged.

Through our equine-assisted programs for Veterans, we’ve witnessed the profound impact these experiences can have, not only on the Veterans themselves but also on their families. One particular journey stands as a testament to this transformative potential. As we worked closely with a Veteran and his family to adopt their first horses — two retired racehorses — we witnessed the incredible power of equine experiences in reconnecting and restoring families. This experience inspired us to expand our mission, reaching more Veterans and their families, and helping them rediscover themselves while rebuilding their connections through the remarkable bond between humans and horses.

Our journey to support first responders began with the development and implementation of equine-assisted behavioral wellness programs, specifically tailored to the unique challenges faced by fire service personnel and law enforcement officers. Drawing from our past experiences where we successfully pioneered and ran similar initiatives, we understood the transformative potential of these programs. They helped build resilience, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being among these local heroes. Having witnessed firsthand the positive impact of these programs on the lives of first responders, both personally and professionally, we are committed to incorporating this essential part of our story into our new non-profit venture. By re-launching and expanding these programs within our communities, we aim to continue making a significant and lasting difference for those who selflessly serve and protect our communities.

Our journey is one of dedication, transformation, and the unwavering belief in the healing power of horsemanship. As we continue to grow and evolve, we invite you to be a part of this incredible journey. Together, we can forge a brighter future, empower lives, and make lasting connections through the remarkable bond between humans and horses.