Zaara Nair

Zaara Nair, 15, is a sophomore at Biotechnology High School in New Jersey and an avid equestrian with a deep passion for horses and the unique bond they create with people. Through years of riding,  she has developed a strong appreciation for the discipline, trust, and communication required in equestrian sports, and believes horses can be a powerful source of healing and therapy. As a volunteer with the SPUR therapeutic riding program at Monmouth County Park and Recreation’s Sunnyside Equestrian Center, Zaara has witnessed first-hand the physical and emotional benefits that equine-assisted activities provide to individuals with diverse needs. These experiences inspired her commitment to increasing awareness of and access to therapeutic riding opportunities. Driven by a belief in the power of education, advocacy, and inclusion, she founded Gentle Gallop during her freshman year to combine her love of horses with a mission to create meaningful impact in her community.