Journey to empowerment through horse riding

NIVONIA Moodley, a quadriplegic author and disability activist, is set to challenge societal perceptions of disability by riding a horse.

Her journey of resilience and empowerment aims to inspire others and rally community support for her awareness initiative. 

For many, the idea of a quadriplegic riding a horse may seem unimaginable - even reckless. But for Moodley, 34, of Chatsworth, it is an act of liberation.

She said this was a personal revolution against being underestimated, and a bold step toward changing how society viewed disability.

“I am physically disabled at most. But there is absolutely nothing wrong with my mind. My knowledge and understanding are intact - so stop underestimating me and reducing my value as a person,” a determined Moodley said.

Diagnosed in her early teens with Fredrich’s Ataxia, a rare genetic disorder that affected her co-ordination and mobility, Moodley’s life had shifted dramatically.

Once an active, mischievous child, she now requires full-time care and uses a wheelchair. But her diagnosis never robbed her of her spirit.

“I don’t want to be known as the very intelligent girl who got reduced by her condition. I want to make a difference and leave an impact,” she said.

In August, Chetty plans to ride a horse - not for show or sport, but to challenge a deeply embedded cultural misconception - that people with disabilities must settle for less.

“I am sure it will be an exhilarating and thrilling experience. A chance to feel ‘normal’ again. I’m really looking forward to it,” she added.

Still in its planning stages, Moodley will live her dream at the Ridgetop Equestrian Centre, where seasoned therapeutic riding expert Tracey Cumming, who once worked with South Africa’s Paralympic Equestrian Team in London, has agreed to train her.

Moodley said while her safety was paramount, the ride had deep symbolism.  

“This is more than a personal challenge. It’s a statement. I came across Riding for the Disabled when I was in school. Horses can help with coordination and therapy, and I have always been fascinated by them. But more than that, I want to show other disabled people that life doesn’t stop at a diagnosis,” she added.

Despite limited mobility and the daily frustrations that come with it, Moodley lives by her personal mantra: “If I can still move and do it on my own, let me do it.”

A typical day begins with the help of her mother or caregiver, but she insists on handling what she can herself - even if it takes longer.

“Once I stop doing things for myself, it will make me weaker quicker. And I’m not ready to lose myself yet,” she said.

Her fierce independence is matched by a thoughtful introspection.

“I have changed. I now watch, listen and observe before speaking. I want to understand before drawing conclusions.”

In 2022, Moodley self-published her autobiography My Life, My Rules - My Style, My Attitude, offering readers a candid look into her emotional and physical journey.

The book gained traction in local media and sparked heartfelt responses from readers moved by her resilience.

Today, she’s calling on the community - not for sympathy, but for solidarity. She’s seeking sponsors to assist with transport, training costs, and the event itself.

“Even a photographer or videographer to capture the moment would help. Exposure on social media, radio, newspapers - it all adds up to spreading the message,” she said.

Her training session is scheduled for August 6, at 11am, and she hopes to host the main event later that month.

“I just want to be treated the same as everyone else. That’s why I’m doing this. To change how people look at us - and how we see ourselves.”

Those wishing to sponsor or assist Moodley can contact her directly at [email protected] or 083 283 5336.

In a world too quick to define people by their limitations, Moodley reminds us that true courage lies not in walking without falling - but in rising, again and again, on our own terms.

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