YBE goes international!
In this episode we had the pleasure to chat with Lydia Heywood, an international rising eventing star residing in the UK, but representing Jamaica.
How does one become an internationally known eventer with a passion for producing quality horses, mentoring and increasing diversity in the sport? Lydia knows and is doing just that. She shares with us her background that led her into this industry with the support of her mom. Her goal is to open up opportunities for other like-minded equestrians and to build a team around her that has the same vision as she does. When asked how having horses has affected her life, Lydia shared it has had a calming effect on her nature by allowing her to connect with the animals on a deeper level and kept her on the straight and narrow.
Lydia shares some of the challenges of she experiences as an upcoming rider, but also explains that even the greats are experiencing hardship in this industry, regardless of race. With mentors such as the High Commissioner of Jamaica that helped her gained rightful citizenship and multiple trainers who helped her hone her skill, Lydia is thankful for her path and hopeful for what is to come.
Lydia posed a question and we would love your feedback: Social media has a major effect on notoriety these days and although we see black cowboys/equestrians on our newsfeeds (because that is our interest), how do we align ourselves in the sights of non-black equestrians and continue to spread awareness with current algorithms?
Advice for equestrians:
- Ride any horse you can get your hands on, it will build your toolkit
- Network! Exposure will benefit you and the community
- Have as many strings to your bow as you can
*Correction - Ebony Horse Club and Urban Equestrian Academy have similar missions, but ARE NOT the same program*
Mentioned in this episode:
Lydia Heywood Equestrian - https://www.facebook.com/LydiaHeywoodEquestrian/
Ebony Horse Club - https://www.ebonyhorseclub.org.uk/
Urban Equestrian Academy - http://www.urbanequestrian.co.uk/
Turtles Nest Villa - https://www.turtlesnestja.com/
Episode Thumbnail Photo Credit to @iainbimages
