Lynda Watson – HorseTouch

What does HorseTouch do?

HorseTouch builds life skills, reduces stress and assists in healing through the touch and reflection of the horse; one person, one community at a time.

At HorseTouch, we focus on working with individuals on personal development, with young people to enhance self-leadership and resilience, and corporate and teambuilding programs. I am currently building a community program that works with the horses and community members in a holistic manner.

What led you to start HorseTouch?

I created HorseTouch because I was motivated by horses and the unique community model they present for us to learn from, as well as the wisdom they can offer us in self-leadership. I have been deeply involved with horses and equine facilitated learning for over 30 years. Social entrepreneurship seemed to describe who I was; with my experience and passion it was a way to define my mission in life, ‘inspiring empathy and enhancing the evolution of human potential.’

Why are you passionate about this cause?

Horses are my inspiration: their natural ability to teach us about ourselves and how we relate to the world around us is incredible and can help us lead more fulfilled lives. Whether it is one person in a private session or working with a community in a holistic session, I am passionate about seeing change happen!

What was your biggest challenge in starting your social enterprise? 

My biggest challenge was to bring together the ‘million’ ideas that were floating around in my head, and combine my expertise and passion, making a succinct and sustainable business that I live and breathe with courage.

How has the SSE supported you in the development of your enterprise?

SSE Ontario enabled me to take my time and slowly bring together those ideas, focusing on what worked for me. Providing the courage to keep at it, the faith that I could accomplish it, and the belief that it was my path and the right thing for me to be doing. The most valuable part of the program was the support I received from the school in terms of opportunities, education and mentoring. I have lifelong friends, mentors and learning managers that are also social entrepreneurs who understand the struggles, challenges and joys of making big change.

What are your plans for the future?

Keep going! With the knowledge and courage gained from my time with SSE, I have started another venture and soon HorseTouch will be a name on everyone’s tongue.  In 5 years I hope to be back on my own farm, hosting equine facilitated learning programs with the horses living in a sanctuary space where they can be as close to nature as possible. I will be in the field co-creating the magic with them- I’ll be the one with 2 legs.

What would your advice be to a budding social entrepreneur?

Show up fully every day with courage and faith, embrace your greatness, always shine for your light makes the world a brighter place, and don’t give up, ever!

 

If you’ve been inspired by Lynda’s story take a look at our courses and see how we can help make your idea a reality.