A group promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the equine industry is now able to expand its reach and support more members thanks to being granted CIC (Community Interest Company) status.
The British Ethnic Riders Federation’s mission is to provide opportunities for young people and adults from ethnically diverse and minority backgrounds to participate in equine and rural activities, predominantly targeting urban areas across the UK.
It will host and encourage members to participate in competitions, providing platforms for minority riders to showcase their talents.
The organisation will also work to strengthen networks with in the industry to foster a community that celebrates and embraces equality, diversity, and inclusion. Relevant brands and companies are invited to get involved, with partnership and sponsorship opportunities for those championing the cause.
Members will be offered support, including training, mentorship and resources, as well as signposting to existing equine and rural organisations.
The federation will also be standing as a regulatory outfit, supporting individuals and organisations facing obstacles and barriers to entry relating to racial discrimination.
A force for change
Guided by a team of minority ethnic directors and a committee, the group includes educators, trainers and experts, who collectively have over 100 years of experience in the equine industry.
Founder Sandra Murphy has a BSc in Equine Sports Science and is currently studying for a Masters in Animal Nutrition. She is a lifelong equestrian and an advocate for diversity within horse sport. Her own daughter suffered discrimination within the sport, to the point where she gave up riding at age 15. Following the George Floyd incident in 2020, her passion was re-ignited, leading her to establish the federation.
Sandra is joined by Malika Keijzer, who has a BA Pedagogy and works at an urban riding school. Malika and her four daughters are keen equestrians and she believes that valuing the differences of others is what ultimately brings us all together.
Jermaine Gregory completes the three-strong leadership team. She has almost 20 years of sales and marketing experience and is a keen podcaster. Jermaine is a member of the Anti-Racism Network Committee at Amnesty UK and has involvement with various other social projects.
The federation already has some 500 members across the UK and overseas, and has worked with the British Horse Society, the Pony Club and riding centres, as well presenting at the London International Horse Show.
It recently launched the #30daysofhorses campaign on Instagram, showcasing the contributions of minority ethnic people from the UK and around the world to the equine industry.
For more information and to get involved, visit berfuk2020.co.uk
Lead image from left to right: Sue Gibbons, Sandra Murphy, Sheneka Reid-Purcell, Shanice Reid-Purcell, Charlotte Alun-Jones and Jermaine Gregory
