My experience volunteering with Equal Ark Singapore has been incredibly enlightening; it has made me realize the silent strength of caring for others, connecting with them, and the therapeutic relationship between people and animals.
Every day began with a gentle greeting from Matahari, a retired polo horse whose spirit remains bright despite the joint problems she carries from her active years, and soft sunlight filtering through the stables.
Through equine-assisted activities, Matahari now serves a different purpose, providing adults and children with therapeutic presence and peaceful companionship. It was touching to watch her engage with the participants. Her presence is grounding. Therapeutic. Magical. Just being with her was therapeutic.
Patrick (Groom) applying treatment to Matahari the sweet one:
Her oilment treatment, an act of kindness that helped ease her joint pain and get her ready for therapy work, was one of the most significant parts of every day. Her devoted caregiver, Patrick, who was always alert and patient, would softly talk to her and massage her legs. Helping him was like taking part in a wellness ritual, where healing was offered with respect and not hurried.
Patrick and his minis - Harley, Ginger & Sunny:
Patrick shared a letter to Matahari written by one of her therapy participants where she expressed heartfelt gratitude to Matahari for being a part of her life. She felt a bond with Matahari stating that due to the position of her stables and being physically less attractive, she shared ''you are always the last option, similar to me''. In horse therapy, mirroring refers to a horse’s ability to reflect a person’s emotions and body language, helping individuals become more aware of their inner state. This nonjudgmental feedback fosters emotional regulation and self-awareness. Over time, comfort association develops, where clients begin to link the presence of horses with feelings of safety, calm, and trust. Together, these effects create a powerful therapeutic environment that supports healing, emotional growth, and resilience.
Amigo (Farrier) changing horseshoe for Valentina the gentle one:
A farrier is a skilled professional who specializes in the care of horses' hooves, combining knowledge of blacksmithing and veterinary care. Their main duties include trimming hooves, fitting and applying horseshoes, and identifying hoof-related health issues. Farriers play a vital role in maintaining a horse's soundness and performance, whether for work, sport, or recreation.
Farriers Tools:
I learned that wellness is a shared journey while volunteering with Equal Ark. It can be found in the way we care for animals, their participants, the customs we uphold, and the tales we decide to share.
Elderly program participant interacting with Good bet:
Equine Trainers gently guiding retired horses with mild weekly exercise:
Stable supervisor Uncle Clement sharing about scheduling and operations as well as unique discoveries of the horses quirks, eg some responds to praises, some loves to be touched on their ears/chins. Follow him on TikTok:@hschan71.
Special treat for Galaxy the unpredictable one:
Video of Caterpillar the friendly one
Video of Falco the anxious one
Video of Ribena the pretty one
Equal Ark and CcFineJeweller serve as a reminder that healing can be straightforward, long-lasting, and intensely personal in a world where everything seems hurried and disjointed. Sometimes we only need a calm morning, a soft touch, and a reminder that our choices about what to wear or give can be an expression of our true values. Jewelry can have meaning if it is made with intention and worn with care, just as horses provides healing through presence.
This silent devotion brought to mind the principles of CcFineJeweller, a Singaporean company. Jewelry serves as a vehicle for values, identity, and purpose at Cc, design is more than just ornamentation. The brand's mission, which is based on the values of Conservation, Wellness, Diversity, and Education, closely reflects what I saw at Equal Ark.
Just like Matahari’s therapy sessions inspire transformation, each piece is designed with intention—crafted with care and worn with purpose. Whether it’s a necklace inspired by the arc of a horse’s stride or earrings echoing farrier tools, their creations tell stories of balance, resilience, and hope.
Farriers Tools Collection:
Farriers Tools - Earring 3mm Round Pearls
Farriers Tools - Earring 2mm Round Pearls
CcFineJeweller returns the favor as well. 5% of proceeds are donated to causes that align with the values that customers choose to support at checkout. Allowing every purchase to support a larger cause, such as preserving wildlife, repairing ecosystems, promoting education, or aiding wellness programs like those at Equal Ark, is a gesture of love.
