Donna is an inspiring coach, entrepreneur, and public speaker whose journey reflects courage, resilience, and the power of embracing authenticity. As the founder of Equus Noire, she specialises in equine-facilitated coaching, partnering with horses to help provide a unique transformational experience for personal and professional development.
Born into a middle-class family, Donna’s childhood was shaped by gymnastics, tennis, and horse riding—activities that set her apart as a black girl often judged for not fitting stereotypes. Labelled a “bounty” for being black on the outside and “white” on the inside, she grew up determined to reclaim her identity and challenge societal norms.
Her professional journey began after a life-changing moment during her final year of university when she became a single mother. Balancing motherhood with a management role at Lloyds Bank taught her resilience and self-belief. She went on to lead with compassion and integrity during her 18 years as a senior leader, transitioning from corporate banking to healthcare leadership.
Donna’s life has been marked by pivotal transitions, including raising her two daughters, navigating personal relationships, and redefining success on her terms. Her most transformative chapter came after a cancer diagnosis, which led her to discover the healing power of horses.
This connection became the foundation of Equus Noire, where Donna merges her life experiences, leadership expertise, and passion for horses to create safe spaces for personal growth and self-discovery.
Her workshops and one-to-one coaching sessions empower entrepreneurs, professional women, leadership teams, and individuals in transition to cultivate resilience, clarity, and purpose.
Donna’s signature talk, Stepping into Your Light: The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership and Life, inspires audiences to embrace vulnerability as a strength. Her keynotes, Be More Horse: Lessons from the Herd and Embracing Transitions with the Wisdom of Horses, share powerful lessons drawn from her personal and professional journey.
With authenticity, warmth, and a story of resilience, Donna inspires others to overcome challenges and step boldly into their own light.
