Michelle Williams, the heart and soul behind Forging Futures, has always been passionate about two things: helping people and horses. Her journey into Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) began with a deeply personal mission to support her daughter, Freya.

The Story Behind Forging Futures

In 2019, Michelle's daughter Freya entered secondary school amidst the chaos of the pandemic. The transition was tough, and soon Freya found herself in a mental health crisis. Despite the efforts of her school and the NHS, Michelle felt that discovering the root cause of Freya’s struggles was crucial for her long-term well-being.

Through extensive research, Michelle recognized that Freya’s unique traits—once seen as quirks—were indicative of neurodivergence, specifically ADHD. Freya’s brain works differently, and traditional educational and societal structures often don’t accommodate this. Despite these challenges, Freya has immense potential: her intelligence, empathy, and drive are extraordinary.

Determined to help Freya navigate a neurotypical world, Michelle discovered Equine Assisted Learning in September 2022. EAL uses the profound connection between horses and humans to create a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring thoughts and behaviours. This experiential learning approach is especially beneficial for those who feel misunderstood, like many neurodivergent individuals.

Michelle’s Passion and Vision

Michelle’s love for horses began in her childhood and led her to earn a degree in Equine Business Management. Combining this with over 20 years of experience as a chartered accountant, she realized she could create a unique business that harnesses the therapeutic power of horses.

EAL offers a way to help individuals, especially those with neurodivergence, feel accepted and understood. Horses, with their non-judgmental nature, provide a unique mirror for human emotions and behaviours. They react to our energy and mood, offering honest feedback without words. This interaction helps individuals uncover and address their emotional challenges in a gentle, non-threatening manner.

Michelle founded Forging Futures not just to offer an alternative to traditional education but to complement it. Her goal is to provide the tools and support necessary for young people to thrive in both their academic and personal lives. Through her certifications and dedication, she has created a space where clients of all ages can experience the transformative power of EAL.

Our Mission

At Forging Futures, we believe in the profound impact of EAL on mental health, especially for neurodivergent individuals. Our mission is to offer a supportive, understanding environment where clients can build self-esteem, develop coping strategies, and achieve their full potential.

Michelle’s personal experience with her own mental health challenges and her journey with Freya fuels her dedication to this work. She is committed to making a real difference in the lives of those who, like her daughter, need a little extra support to navigate the world.

Join Us

Whether you're a parent seeking support for your child, an adult facing emotional challenges, or simply someone curious about the benefits of EAL, we invite you to join us at Forging Futures. Let our horses guide you towards greater self-understanding, acceptance, and resilience. Together, we can forge a brighter future.