A remarkable journey from financial hardship to an aspiring horse entrepreneur
A remarkable journey from financial hardship to an aspiring horse entrepreneur
Suresh Thakuri, a 33-year-old resident of Bhaktapur, found himself struggling to provide for his family of seven while doing labor work in a retail construction company. A modest monthly income of NRS 10,000 could barely secure his mere essentials, let alone the family’s needs. This constant battle to earn a living for his family shaped his thought on innovation, which led him to his childhood love—horses. Three years ago, he embarked on a life-changing journey, purchased a horse from a nearby Brick Kiln (Majhi Bhairab) for NRS 30,000, and started tourist horse-riding business. Motivated by the initial encouragement and newfound scope, he opted to add a few more horses and diversify his business venture. Today, he owns six horses, which are rented out for various socio-cultural rituals, including weddings and other events. He also lends his horses to local schools for educational and training purposes. His other notable avenues include providing horse-riding training to the local residents. Despite never receiving any formal training, his passion and knack for understanding horse behavior, as well as hands-on experience, have earned him the trust of the trainees who confide in his mentorship in horse riding. His cumulative annual income ranges from NRS 1 million to 1.5 million allowing him to secure a healthy annual saving of NRS 0.4million to 0.5 million after deducting costs incurred for looking after the horses and his family expenses. It has enabled him to break free from his financial constraints and afford quality education, healthcare, and a comfortable livelihood for his family, as well as ensure optimal care to his invaluable asset, the horse.
AHTCS has been a prominent figure in his truly remarkable journey right from its inception. His enthusiasm and learning attitude led to his involvement with the AHTCS. Since then, he has been actively engaged in various project interventions, including training on various equine health and husbandry practices such as housing, nutrition, primary care (hoof care, eye care, grooming), first aid, and preventive medicines and other health and welfare-related aspects. He is willing to seek medical attention from AHTCS-trained AHPs for ailing equids in need. Reflecting on his association with AHTCS, he says, “Initially, I had the urge but not the right guidance. I was unaware of the needs and requirements of horses. My engagement with AHTCS has equipped me with proper skills and knowledge on equine care and husbandry practices and ensured that my horses receive the best possible care within my resources.” He intends to expand his business and provide job opportunities to youths like him.
Suresh is a true role model, and his journey could inspire the generation of youths to explore/create opportunities within the country rather than investing their prime productive years working abroad—a harsh reality facing Nepal.
