An exemplary Somerset West tween in pursuit of her equestrian aspirations has ventured into entrepreneurship to afford the costs of livery, serving as proof that dreams don’t work unless you do.
Instead of being put off her passion by financial constraints, the 12-year-old took charge of the situation, tamed all obstacles to her destiny and is galloping home. Rachel Cradle tapped into her entrepreneurial skill, initiated the concept of sourcing and selling quality products with a disciplined approach, and now with the profits made is able to fork out the money to half-lease a horse for scaling greater heights in horseback riding.
Her mother, Kim, shared that Rachel currently rides once a week at Bella Valle Equestrian, but her passion has fuelled a longing to engage in the activity more and the goal to half-lease a horse someday. “Financially her father and I are currently unable to contribute more than the weekly lesson fee, so she had the idea to raise some funds – R13 000 to cover six months of a half-lease.”
Since May Rachel started selling lemons and lemonade off Lourensford Road, opposite Radloff Park, one morning over a weekend, weather permitting. However, the business venture has grown since its humble beginnings and has seen the avid equestrian expand her offering.
In addition to the citrus fruit and flavoured beverage she now sells a variety of products including indulgently tasty cupcakes, fudge, popcorn, healthy doggy treats and organic soap, all home-made by the inspirational little businesswoman as well as quality honey sourced from Grabouw and a range of plants she grows herself as well as donated books.
While Rachel has successfully earned money to realise her goal, locals are called on for their continued support, for she would have to keep up the fundraising efforts in the foreseeable future to be able to half-lease a horse to improve her riding skills and pay competition fees.
“Rachel is all about horses and horseback riding,” her mother said. “She dreams about horses, she does projects about them, she watches YouTube to expand her knowledge of horses, plus the yard is her happy place where she has made amazing friendships with like-minded peers.”
Rachel has been riding on and off for a while, but has focused on the passion after the bug truly bit last December. Over the past few months she has managed to raise close to R6 500. The funds afford her the chance to realise her dreams of actually owning her own horse one day, and a yard where she can live her passion out, a half-lease contract starting next month and the opportunity to grow her skills and abilities.
“I am so, so proud of my child,” said Cradle. “Initially I thought she would give up on realising how much work and planning it takes, but she really has shown her determination and fighting spirit. She has really grown over the past four months and learnt so much, not just in terms of business, but also in how generous people can be when you show grit.”
She extended a “thank you” to all who have offered their valued support, urging locals to swing by for a look or chat, obligation-free.
