May 8th: Today’s Feature

May

FREEDOM ZAMPALADUS

Freedom Zampaladus, the visionary behind The Urban Equestrian Academy, is a highly esteemed figure within the community. Not only is he a captivating public speaker and accomplished author, but he also shines as a presenter, actor, and seasoned equestrian specialist with expertise spanning across the UK and the Caribbean.

With a wealth of experience in Youth & Community work, Freedom has dedicated his career to making a positive impact on the lives of young people and fostering a sense of unity within the community. His multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment to empowering others have solidified his reputation as a leader in the field of equestrian education and community development.

THE PHILOSOPHY

The philosophy of the UEA revolves around the idea of fostering personal growth and social development through various aspects of horse care, stable management, horse riding, and equestrian sports. Their social enterprise, known as ‘The Urban Equestrian Academy’, is dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities that were previously unseen in the equestrian world. Their core values are centred on inclusivity, aiming to engage individuals and communities with limited exposure to the equestrian realm.

In addition to their focus on the United Kingdom, the UEA also extends its reach to the global equine industry. By doing so, they aim to empower their clientele and encourage them to take ownership of their equestrian journey. Rather than solely emphasising the enjoyment of the sport, the UEA places importance on instilling a strong foundation from a young age, preparing service users to consider ‘Working with Equines’ as a viable career path.

Furthermore, the UEA places a strong emphasis on equipping their members with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to become proficient riders. They believe that understanding the requirements of the industry is crucial in developing competent equestrians. By focusing on education and practical training, the UEA ensures that their members are well-prepared to pursue a career in the equestrian field with confidence and competence.

FREEDOM ZAMPALADUS STORY

At the age of 14, he was introduced to the world of equestrianism by his uncle in Antigua, after his parents moved from Leicester, UK. By 17, he had become a professional racehorse trainer at his uncle's race yard, Ocean Pacific Stables, where he managed all duties and responsibilities, immersing himself in the equine world.

EQUESTRIAN CREDENTIALS

Zampaladus, an accomplished and fully qualified racehorse trainer and horse breeder, boasts a wealth of experience in the field. Previously, Freedom held a prestigious position at the renowned Arabian Stub Farm, "Umm Qarn Farms," which was under the ownership of HRH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the ruler of Qatar at that time. With a strong background in the equestrian industry, Freedom's expertise and dedication have undoubtedly contributed to their success in the realm of horse training and breeding.

TROUBLE WITH LANDOWNERS

The journey towards acquiring their own premises was filled with challenges. Founder Fr33dom Zampaladus held an online meeting to discuss the academy's evolution from taking young people to equestrian centres in a minibus to finally settling in a location closer to the city for better accessibility to local children.

Despite facing racism and bigotry from the previous land owner, the academy experienced significant growth.

PUBLISHED AUTHOR

Zampaladus, a renowned author, has gained recognition for his book 'From The Hood 2 Horses', which delves into the significant events that shaped his life between the ages of 14 and 19. This particular period in his life played a pivotal role in moulding him into the individual he is today. His book gives a more profound understanding of the origins of his vision for The Urban Academy.

The narrative of Freedom Zampaladus revolves around a transformative journey that has truly opened his eyes to the world. He firmly believes that change is an inherent and constant aspect of life, and through his personal story, he aspires to ignite a sense of introspection in others. Recognising the lack of entrepreneurship education in traditional schooling, Freedom aims to inspire the younger generation to embrace their unique skills and talents. His brainchild, The Urban Equestrian Academy, serves as a platform for character development, making it an ideal avenue for children, teenagers, and individuals of all ages to immerse themselves in the world of equestrianism.

In addition to his literary accomplishments, Freedom Zampaladus has embraced his own talents and diversified his pursuits. He has found joy and fulfilment in acting, public speaking, teaching, and writing. Moreover, he actively engages in initiatives that contribute to the growth and unity of his local community in Leicester, following in the footsteps of his grandparents and family who have long been pillars of strength and cohesion. Through his multifaceted endeavours, Freedom strives to create a stronger and more harmonious society, leaving a lasting impact on those around him.