About TOHAP Founder, Sherize Pieterse

In their home, horses were never simply an interest; they formed part of everyday life. This deep-rooted love was inherited and nurtured by a mother who was both an avid rider and a devoted horsewoman.

Her formal riding journey began at the Johannesburg Equestrian Centre, where strong-minded ponies played a significant role in shaping both her skill and patience. Those early years were filled with pony camps, Saturday morning lessons, carefree rides, and long afternoons spent unwinding after dusty days at the stables. It was during this time that horses became more than a pastime — they became a constant.

Throughout her youth, every opportunity to ride was embraced. Under the guidance of passionate and dedicated horsewomen, a clear realisation began to take shape: working with horses was not just an interest, but a calling. Alongside this growing ambition, she pursued a degree in education while continuing to expand her practical knowledge and experience within the equine space. 

An interest in equine-assisted riding and interventional therapies followed, driven by a fascination with the connection between horse and human. Over time, however, her focus shifted more distinctly toward the horses themselves — particularly those whose discomfort or behavioural challenges were not fully understood.

A pivotal step in this journey came in 2017 with the completion of a foundational saddle fitting course, marking the start of a more specialised professional path. Since then, her studies have expanded to include equine anatomy and physiology, sports massage, kinesiology taping, lameness evaluation, and rehabilitation. Ongoing education remains a priority, fuelled by both natural curiosity and a firm belief that learning never truly stops.

Whilst currently completing her Advanced Diploma in Equine Exercise Rehabilitation, Sherize is already looking ahead.  In both education and horsemanship, she sees growth as a continuous, evolving process.