About Soul and Saddle

Soul and Saddle is a collective project born from my belief in a connection between humans and horses- a connection beyond words. When a person sits in the saddle, the steady rhythm of the horse beneath them brings strength. But more than that, it's a relationship built on trust, not control.

To ride is not to manipulate the horse, but to work as equals.

I want to explore how these moments of mutual understanding can help people find balance and healing. This website is a space where we celebrate the transformative power of horses--how they help us embrace vulnerability, rebuild trust, and find healing in even the smallest moments of connection.

Join me as we discover how the rhythm of hooves can touch the hearts.

My Equestrian Training:

I am Reanna, a 11th grade student at SAS and have been in professional equestrian training since 2020.

My current riding level:

British Horse Society (BHS): Stage 2–3
Dressage / flatwork: Level 3
Show jumping: Level 2–3
Lunging horses: Stage 3
Stable management: Level 2–3

RDA Involvement:

I have been actively involved in a therapeutic riding program that supports children with developmental and emotional challenges.

The program operates on a one-year therapeutic cycle, as consistency and trust are essential for meaningful progress. We typically work with about five children per year and have supported around ten children to date.

Sessions are held on Fridays and Sundays, allowing for continuity and relationship building. The program is supported by a volunteer team of approximately 30 members.

My leadership over years:

2023: Volunteer
2024-2025: Group Leader
2026: Apprentice Coach

Impact and Purpose

RDA supports children in:

emotional regulation
confidence building
social interaction skills
trust and communication

We have worked with children with ADHD, Down syndrome, and other developmental differences.

More About Me

Hi, I'm Reanna — a junior at Shanghai American School and the founder of Soul and Saddle, a student-led equine program serving neurodiverse children in Shanghai.

I grew up in Hong Kong (char siew rice is still my ultimate comfort food), moved to Shanghai in 2020, and somehow ended up raising a puppy called 伯爵 (Grand Duke) — despite being allergic to most animal fur.

Horses, however, have my heart. They're also the bridge that led me from competitive riding to a passion for disability inclusion and accessible therapeutic programs.

eel free to browse my website to learn more about my journey, this project, and the horses who inspire me — Angus, Mango, and Dragon.