Jen moves for commitment and joy
“The best way to increase diversity is to create a sport where everyone sees a reflection of themselves.”
Jen is on a mission to open doors in equestrian sport. Through her platform @BlackEquestrians, she’s increasing representation and hopes one day to provide riding grants to Black youth, giving others the chance to experience the joy she’s found in horses.
I’ve always been aware of the huge racial disparity in equestrian sports,” she says, “but I wasn’t really sure what I could do about it... I created an Instagram page called Black Equestrians."
What began as a single Instagram page has grown into a platform that challenges old perceptions and makes space for new voices.
And slowly, the shift is happening.
“In expanding the way equestrian sports are represented, we can move away from the widely-held idea of what a traditional equestrian looks like.”
Her own journey began at age 10, when she begged her mom to let her take riding lessons at summer camp. What started with learning the basics—tacking up and caring for a horse—grew into a lifelong passion for the quiet connection of riding, and the way it allows her to be fully present in nature.
“My horse Piper mirrors his rider—if you’re tired, he’s pokey; if you’re ready to go, he’s right there with you. Horses are so sensitive, and that bond is what I love most,” Jen says. Beyond riding, she treasures the time spent grooming Piper, taking him to the long grass, and just being outdoors together.
“In summary, wanting to help people inspires me," she concludes. "It's about creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and leaving a legacy of kindness and compassion."
For Jen, movement is more than exercise - it’s connection, therapy and the act of reshaping the stories we tell - and who gets to be seen in them!