Young Riders
Pathways to Excellence
The Africa Hoofprint Foundation NPC is committed to not only introducing young riders to the equestrian world, but also creating clear, supported pathways for those who demonstrate passion, discipline, and talent to pursue equestrian sport at the highest level. Riders who excel in their chosen disciplines will be guided toward advanced opportunities, such as elite training programmes with South African icons like the Lipizzaner Centre, specialised show jumping coaching, and potential selection into provincial and national development squads.
As we continue to grow, our vision is to establish a Centre of Sporting Excellence — a dedicated training and mentorship hub for aspiring professional riders. This Centre will offer advanced coaching, access to competitive circuits, and career guidance for youth ready to transition from local talent to national champions.
By investing in our young riders today, we are laying the foundation for a future generation of equestrian athletes who not only represent their sport with pride but also uplift their communities with their example, discipline, and determination.
Rising Stars
At Africa Hoofprint Foundation, we believe that talent lives everywhere — but opportunity does not. That’s why our work is more than rescuing horses; it’s about unlocking human potential through partnership, perseverance, and purpose.
Today, we are proud to celebrate two young people whose journeys prove exactly why we exist.
Nicole Jacobs
We could not be prouder of one of our founding participants, Nicole Jacobs, who joined our programme in 2017 and remained a dedicated rider and team member until completing her matric in December 2022.
In January 2023, Nicole was selected to join the FirstRand Youth Development Student Programme, training at the world-renowned South African Lipizzaners at Mistico Equestrian Centre in Paarl. This prestigious opportunity — offered to only a select few nationwide — marks her as a standout talent and ambassador for equestrian excellence.
Thanks to her determination and work ethic, Nicole was invited to continue her studies in 2024 and finished the programme end of 2025. She now rides not only for herself but for every young person who dares to dream beyond their circumstances.
Nicole is proof that when given the tools and trust, our youth can rise to meet any standard — no matter how high.
Deohlan “Olin” Oliphant
Olin's journey has been anything but ordinary. After struggling in traditional schooling — repeating two years and eventually being expelled—he had nearly given up on himself. But in 2018, he found a new path through the Africa Hoofprint Foundation..
Now in his sixth year with us, Deohlan “Olin” Oliphant has become one of our most advanced riders. In July 2024, he competed in his first official show at the Robberg Equestrian Park – Outdoor Grand Prix, riding his trusted partner, The Cat. With three clear rounds in the 70cm and 80cm classes, Olin advanced to the Jump-Off round and secured 3rd place — an incredible feat for a first-time competitor.
Since that breakout performance, Olin has added a second horse to his training stable, and now competes in both Dressage and Show Jumping. Within just 8 months, he has officially graded to 1m (100cm) under the South African Show Jumping Federation (SASJ). His rapid progress is a testament to his commitment and the guidance of his coach, Savannah Van Der Sijde of Equine-Librium Stables, along with the support of the Robberg Equestrian Club community.
Academically, Olin has made a full turnaround. With the Foundation's support, he shifted to home-schooling and is currently completing his matric with consistent success. Even more inspiring — he’s now earning his own income by working with two freelance clients, schooling and exercising their horses during the competitive season.
Olin's story is not just about riding — it’s about redemption, resilience, and the transformative power of belief.
In February 2026, Olin was accepted into the prestigious FirstRand SA Lipizzaner Training Programme.
These rising stars are more than individual success stories.
* They are proof of concept.
* They are why we exist.
* And they are only the beginning.
Endorsed by the Department of Education, we have started our 2026 Learners at Kranshoek Primary School.