Walid's Mission for Morocco
In the third in a series of interviews with exceptional equestrians, we introduce you to 15-year-old Walid Redouane.
Junior Moroccan Jumping athlete Walid Redouane is passionate about changing lives of children around the world through his role as Ambassador for equestrian charity JustWorld International.
“Anyone can change the world, no matter how small. There are a lot of equestrians around the world and if we work together, we can have a huge impact. Together, we go further,” says Walid.
Like many other riders, Walid’s love for Jumping started at an early age.
He says:
“My brother (Adam) introduced me to riding when I was just five years old. I saw him winning a lot of competitions and it motivated me to want to do the same. Still participating at the 1.40m level, he continues to inspire me.”
Walid’s sister Nada encouraged his passion as well, as she used to ride at the 1.40m level until she stopped to study medicine.
Walid shared that while riding isn’t a widespread sport in Morocco, he has found that riders in his country act “like family” and all encourage each other to pursue their passion and goals.
Training with Ghali Boukaa, a member of the Moroccan national team, and competing at the 1.30m level with his family’s three horses, Walid rides at least four times a week.
“When I am riding, I feel like I am freeing myself from the daily life pressures. I also love animals. Even if I can be with my horse for just one minute a day, it makes me happy,” he says.
He shares a special bond with one horse in particular, Altesse des Ailes.
Together, they have competed a lot, including riding at Walid’s favorite shows, the Moroccan Championships and the Moroccan Royal Tour.
“She knows my heart and I know hers. Jumping is like my oxygen. I want riding to always be a part of my life.”
Walid hopes to compete in the Moroccan Championships again and participate in other international competitions.
Walid has another passion - helping children who don’t have the opportunity to follow their own passions.
He plans on going to college in the UK or US to focus on humanitarian studies. He became interested in helping others when he was only 11 years old.
He says:
“In Morocco, there’s a lot of people living in poverty. I’d see children begging on the streets. I feel guilty. Why do I have a great quality of life while other children are struggling? They deserve to go to school. They deserve to eat when they are hungry.”
Walid was surprised to learn that according to UNESCO, more than one million children haven’t received primary and secondary education in Morocco. In rural areas, infrastructure is lacking and schools are located far from residential areas. Moreover, many children are forced to work menial and gruelling jobs to help support their families and survive day-to-day.
Walid felt compelled to do something. He started by providing clothes and food to people living on his street. He then expanded to help others throughout the community. He would connect those in need to local charities where they can go to school and flee poverty.
“Those who I was able to help, they would cry, hug me, and thank me profusely,” he says. “It makes me want to do more. The children not in school are lost talent. Every child deserves to go to school. School allows them to become what they dream to be.”
While competing at the German Friendships in 2019, Walid met Jessica Newman, JustWorld Founder and President.
Becoming aware that other riders just like him can make a difference in the world around them was in fact part of the foundation of JustWorld.
Since 2003, JustWorld has given equestrians of all ages, riding levels, and disciplines the opportunity to serve as “changemakers” for children around the world who depend on the education and nutrition programs JustWorld funds.
Walid was instantly inspired to become a JustWorld Ambassador.
He says:
“Being a JustWorld Ambassador means I have a responsibility that I want to carry and be proud of. I continue to spread awareness of the JustWorld mission to friends and family. I hope they will join this community because we all can do something to change the world - especially young people. We are a generation of solvers.”
Walid shared that thanks to JustWorld, he feels empowered to do more.
“Before JustWorld, I was curious about injustices but JustWorld made me realise that my voice truly helps others and that there are other riders like me who are working together to bring joy to the children at the JustWorld projects.”
Since welcoming Walid as a JustWorld Ambassador, he has made huge strides for the organisation. Most incredibly, Walid conducted in-depth research and took initiative to identify potential projects that need funding in Morocco that are aligned with the JustWorld mission, so that more children around the world can benefit from JustWorld support.
“I began to really look into poverty statistics in Morocco,” he says. “The rate of illiteracy, food insecurity and poverty is staggering. My goal is to bring the powerful JustWorld programs to my home. I want to make an impact in my community and contribute to the progress of a cause that is close to my heart.”
Walid’s enthusiasm and commitment is a true exemplification of “kids helping kids” and is how JustWorld will continue to empower equestrians to change the world.
Walid encourages other riders to join the JustWorld mission. “Each of us can leave a footprint in this world. Together, our help can be magnified.”