One of the first things that stood out to me in Malaysia was the heat. Every session was held in hot, humid conditions that made even simple tasks exhausting. By the end of the morning, everyone—volunteers, instructors, horses and riders—was dripping with sweat. 

The horses worked incredibly hard, and we had to be mindful of giving them regular breaks and keeping everyone hydrated. It wasn’t always easy, but despite the challenges, every session was filled with smiles, laughter and determination.

The facilities in Malaysia were also very different from what I was used to in New Zealand. There were fewer resources, simpler equipment and not always the same level of support or funding. Yet none of that stopped the volunteers from creating meaningful experiences for the children. They made the most of what they had, and it was inspiring to see how much could be achieved through passion, creativity and teamwork rather than expensive facilities.

Coming back to New Zealand made me appreciate how fortunate we are. We have wonderful facilities, well-trained horses and fantastic equipment that allows us to deliver high-quality programmes. But what I realised is that while the surroundings may differ, the heart of RDA is exactly the same. It’s the people who make the difference.

The children I met in both countries are what I’ll remember most. Although they came from different backgrounds and cultures, they all shared something in common: the joy that came from spending time with the horses. Watching a nervous child gradually relax, seeing their confidence grow with every ride, or hearing them laugh as they achieved something they never thought they could do is something that never gets old.

Every week I leave feeling grateful. Grateful for the opportunity to meet incredible children, to work alongside passionate volunteers and to witness moments of courage and resilience that inspire me far more than I could ever inspire anyone else.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from volunteering with RDA in two very different countries, it’s that you don’t have to change the world to make a difference. Sometimes all it takes is showing up, giving your time and believing in a child. What might seem like a small effort to you could become a life-changing moment for them.

For me, volunteering with Riding for the Disabled has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It has shown me the power of community, the incredible bond between horses and people, and the lasting impact that compassion and consistency can have. It’s an experience I’ll always be grateful for, and one that continues to remind me that the smallest acts of kindness often leave the biggest footprints.