For 19-year-old Jasmijn Schagen it is simple: she wants to do work that feels good. Not because you have to, but because it fits. With a good dose of love for horses, in the final phase of her training as ‘Manager equestrian sports and horse farming’ at Aeres Barneveld and a fresh look at the sector, she is looking for a job for her gap year. Her story shows exactly what young professionals need – and what employers can do to bind and captivate them.
Passion for horses and more than that
Jasmijn has loved horses all her life. She rode at the riding school for years, had a co-riding horse and feels at home in the disciplines of dressage, jumping and eventing. “I like to do work that doesn’t feel like work. Turning my hobby into my profession, that’s the goal.” She now occasionally competes in the FNRS (Federation of Dutch Horse Riding Schools) circuit, but dreams about having her own horse and more competition experience are certainly there.
After her studies, Jasmijn consciously takes a gap year to gain work experience in practice. Then a special ambition beckons: the mounted police.
Knowing what you’re looking for – and what you need more
Jasmijn previously worked as a stable worker. An educational experience, although she also discovered what doesn’t work so well for her. I like to get things done, but variety is important to me.” Teaching, riding or even canteen work in combination with stable work? Willingly!
What she also finds important in a workplace:
- Variety in tasks: no day is the same
- Horse welfare comes first
- Good communication in the team
- A positive and professional atmosphere
- Honesty about terms of employment
- Room to learn and grow
“I prefer to work in a team that really works together, where people dare to say what they think. That is not only nicer to work with, it makes everything more efficient.”
What employers can learn from jasmijn
Jasmine is no exception. She represents a growing group of young people in the equestrian sector: motivated, realistic and looking for more than just ‘working hours’. There is an opportunity here for employers. Do you want to attract and retain young employees? Then according to Jasmijn, these are the keys to success:
✅ Provide balance in physical work – Variety prevents overload and makes the work more attractive.
✅ Offer career opportunities – for example in teaching, stable management or customer contact.
✅ Be honest about salary and conditions – Open communication builds mutual trust.
✅ Create a pleasant work culture – Professional and human, with room for feedback and collaboration.
✅ Listen to your team – Ask for input and take their experiences seriously.
Young talent like Jasmijn not only brings passion, but also new energy and ideas. At Horse and Work you will find motivated job seekers who can strengthen your company. Post your vacancy today or discover how you can take your employership to the next level.