How horseriding has empowered a blind Emirati student - in pictures

A blind Emirati student has defied the odds by pursuing studies in early childhood at Zayed University, where horseback riding helps her relax

Shaikha Habes Al Mansouri is a Zayed University graduate student in the last year of her studies. She is blind, but recognises that having an impairment allows her to inspire others who are determined to achieve their goals. Riding horses gives her confidence, she says. All photos: Vidhyaa Chandramohan

"When I first began school, I was terrified because everything was so foreign to me. But now that I've been studying for a while, I've grown to not be frightened of anything. I grew as a person as a result of the education I received at university, which allowed me to better relate to others."

She chose horseriding because it gives her the sensation of being free and floating above everything.

Shaikha says that when she rides a horse, she gains body awareness, confidence and self-esteem. There are many other benefits of spending time with horses, she adds.

"When I'm with my horse, I don't think about my impairment. I simply don't feel like myself," she says.

Shaikha believes she would have been unable to realise her ambitions had it not been for the support she receives from her family.

Shaikha says: "My mother is a wonderful support for me in my life; she encourages me to try new things and gives me freedom. Similarly, my friends support me at college and when I want to try new things, particularly horsing. They always assist me when I want to go horsing".

Technology has made life easier, especially the BrailleNote Touch device that she uses for her studies, adds Shaikha.

Shaikha is a member of the Emirates Association for the Visually Impaired and one of her ambitions is to become a teacher for visually impaired children, encouraging them to participate in a variety of activities.

"I adore all animals, but horses are special," says Shaikha. "I don't need to ride all the time to be happy, but I do need to be able to engage with them on some level. Equines nourish and ground me on a deep level. When I'm away from horses for a few weeks, I feel agitated and unsure of myself."

"When I spend time with horses, I feel at ease and they are able to comprehend my emotions. I always feed them carrots before beginning the ride," says Shaikha.

She urges other women to pursue horseriding in ladies' groups, as a way of relaxing. "When I go horseriding with them, I won't feel different from them," she says.

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