Meet Sierra
Sierra Backman is a horse trainer based in Wilton, California. Her work with horses is intimate, connected, and founded on building relationship and partnership with horses
She offers a variety of services including horse training using a natural horsemanship philosophy, lessons for adults and children, as well as mentorship for owners who are looking to further connect and build a relationship with their horse, as well as improve on their skills and communication.
Her story
Before I had any horse experiences, I thought they were the most beautiful and awe inspiring creatures. When I was around sixteen years old, I got connected to Winward Natural Equine Center and started cleaning stalls in exchange for lessons. I knew very little about horses and am so grateful that this is where I was able to start my learning. SandyJean Winward taught me how horses think, how to be aware of their body language, and what they are communicating with us. Through that experience, she gave me my first horse Mozada, who has taught me so much.
Healing with horses
SandyJean and I worked with Mozada for a year, before she gave her to me. In that time she walked me through the steps of how to show a horse that they are loved and valued for more than just what they can give us. I also learned how important patience is, the value of being able to control my energy and intentions, and the importance of just being with and spending time with horses the way a herd does. After a few years, I moved to Central Oregon where I volunteered at a Youth Ranch working with at risk kids and horses. I spent my time there mentoring kiddos, helping them to build relationships with horses. as well as watching as the Lord spoke to their little hearts through their time with the horses. I believe the Lord gave horses a way to speak to hurting people that seems to come straight from his heart. He has taught me so much about his desire for relationship with me, through the way that I desire relationship with my horses. I am still awed and grateful for the ways that Holy Spirit still meets me all the time and the things He teaches me while I am working with the horses and my students.
“She loved her lesson today! You have a huge talent with horses and the skills to help people with their horse issues. You’re doing what you were put on Earth to do, I’m sure of it!”
— Kayla