Equine therapy programs offer a lifeline to reclusive youth in Singapore
SINGAPORE – At just 20 years old, Angel Huang knows the pain of feeling left behind. She dropped out of school during Secondary 3, overwhelmed by academic pressures and the relentless competition among her peers. For three years, she withdrew from the world, spending her days at home and finding even basic interactions with others intimidating.
“I felt like I couldn’t keep up,” Angel shared, adding that seeing her peers move forward to polytechnic or junior college only deepened her sense of alienation.
But her journey took a turn thanks to an innovative program by Fei Yue Community Services (FYCS). Designed for youth who are neither studying nor working—referred to as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training)—the program uses animal care as a way to rebuild confidence and social skills.
Healing Through Horses
Angel recently completed the “Horse-ibilities” program, a collaboration between FYCS and Equal, a charity specializing in equine-assisted learning. The five-session initiative allowed participants to feed, groom, and interact with horses. The sessions are designed to teach responsibility, empathy, and trust while improving communication and emotional awareness.
“Horses are incredibly intuitive and sensitive. They often mirror human emotions, making them exceptional partners for helping youth understand their feelings and behaviors,” said Ann Hui Peng, head of programs and services at Equal.
The collaboration, which began as a pilot in September, aims to address social-emotional development challenges in young people. According to Ann, the horses’ non-judgmental nature creates a safe space for participants to explore their emotions and build confidence.
A Supportive Space
For Angel and others like her, the experience has been transformative. Guided by trainers like G. Matthias, a former jockey turned equine trainer, participants have the opportunity to reconnect with themselves and the world around them.
The sessions take place at Equal’s stables at 100 Jalan Mashhor, where the serene environment complements the therapeutic interactions.
“The horses don’t judge you,” said Angel. “They just respond to you as you are. That’s what makes this so special.”
This initiative is just one part of FYCS’s broader animal care program, which also includes exposure to the roles of zookeepers and other animal caretakers. The goal is to provide these youth with a sense of purpose and direction while fostering critical life skills.
As Angel reflects on her journey, she sees the program as a new beginning. “Every interaction with the horses reminded me that every day is a chance to start over,” she said.
