The Highveld Horse Unit’s 2025 Outreach Virtual Competition was the “horse beauty contest with a purpose”, showcasing how genuine care by dedicated owners can flourish even in the most challenging of circumstances.
Gauteng, South Africa (28 August 2025) – When something truly matters to someone, they nurture, protect, and care for it with unwavering dedication. Even in less-than-ideal circumstances, the love and meticulous attention given to what is cherished shines through.
This sentiment was beautifully displayed at the Highveld Horse Unit’s 2025 Outreach Virtual Competition, where disadvantaged horse owners had the opportunity to showcase their working cart horses and inspire the general public to vote for them on social media.
Held in the rural Gauteng communities that the Highveld Horse Unit supports, the competition not only raised awareness of the exceptional care given to many working equines in these underserved areas but also fostered a positive impact within these very communities.
This year’s run saw a total of 20 competitors enter with their magnificent animals to pose for images that would compete for the most votes based on how well their horse was groomed and cared for.
Every vote was a R200 donation, with funds being split between the horse’s owner and the Highveld Horse Unit’s mission to improve equine welfare. Generous sponsors also donated items and funds to recognise the achievements of all competitors.
The competition crowned a winner based on votes received, and this year’s champion was an owner whose horse boasted the shiniest coat and healthiest physique against the backdrop of an informal settlement, proving that poverty doesn’t define the quality of care.
“The contrast of beauty and poverty in one powerful photo! This horse’s owner shows that love and compassion can overcome any obstacle,” Highveld Horse Unit shared.
Social media users were also touched by the striking image and praised the horse owner as a shining example for others to follow.
A picture is worth a thousand words, and there is just no denying that his horse is well looked after to the owner’s best ability, despite difficult circumstances. And that is exactly what the initiative is about: to offer a different outlook towards those dedicated to caring for their working equines in disadvantaged areas, as well as uplift them in the process.
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Kudos to the winner and all the participants who have demonstrated that love and care can go much further than struggle ever could.
Sources: Highveld Horse Unit
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