ABOUT OUR ORGANIZATION
Our history
My name is Claudia Moreno, director of Galapagos Horse Friends. It all started with the purchase of two neglected mares from a neighbour. An abandoned stallion forced its way into my property and impregnated those mares. That I wanted to help the horses in the Galapagos became clear to me with the joy and worry of the birth of my fourth foal, a result of uncontrolled breeding. Later, I also took in other horses with different sad backgrounds. Now, I care for a herd of 15 horses, the lack of resources during the pandemic made it clear to me that becoming a foundation was the way forward to transform my current project into a long lasting sanctuary for mistreated and abandoned horses on the island. The bigger and long lasting impact of a foundation status will enhance both the wellbeing of horses and that of other animals on the Galapagos. Surrounded by many likeminded and visionary animal lovers, the foundation will soon become a reality.
TEAM
Where the Passion Begins
We would like for you to get to know the caring members behind the team of our soon-to-become foundation, and have asked them to explain what their position in the foundations is, their background and about their interest in Galapagos Horse Friends Foundation. We thank them for being such good sports.
CLAUDIA MORENO
Founder and President of Galapagos Horse Friends Foundation
Hi, I am Claudia Moreno, the Founder and President of our soon-to-be Foundation. Back in Germany I was an optometrist, and at the same time loved animals and nature, which eventually lead me to the Galapagos Islands.
After working for 15 years as a tour leader, my belief in the importance of compassion and empathy for animals, who are depended on us humans, had grown very strong.
Since my childhood I've loved horses and while living on the Islands this love grew into passion.
Now I have been able to put actions to my passion, and I'm very proud of not just being able to help the horses, but learning more about their nature as well - especially becoming a certified Practitioner of Horse Guided Empowerment® / MarzMethod®.
I am happy to promote to everyone that all horses, also on the Galapagos, deserve love and respect. With our soon-to-launch Foundation, I want to give something back to the animals.
NATHALIE MONTALVO
Vice President of Galapagos Horse Friends
I am Nathalie Montalvo and I am the Vice President of Galapagos Horse Friends. I have always loved animals and at the age of 14 I stopped eating meat and I am very happy with my decision to be a vegetarian. In Switzerland I worked as a commercial employee before migrating to the Galapagos Islands where I am a mother, a housewife and a German teacher for children.
I have known Claudia Moreno for many years and I accompanied her all the way with her project until she had the Galapagos Horse Friends foundation. I have seen the difference that Claudia and Galapagos Horse Friends make when treating horses under the principles of Natural Horsemanship. I know that we can improve animal welfare through education and I am very proud to be part of Galapagos Horse Friends.
CHRISTINA MARZ
Board member of Galapagos Horse Friends Foundation
I am Christina Marz, member of the foundation, psychologist and founder of Horse Guided Empowerment® / MarzMethod®, an innovative method of coaching and therapy with the herd of horses. Completed a training course with the GHF herd and certified two team members to help them create sustainable income from rescued horses. I have done the same with several packs around the world, and continue to support them to the best of my knowledge. We have also started a personal retreat program that will help generate income to support the precious GHF herd. Learn more about me at ChristinaMarz.com
ÁNGEL RAMÓN
Secretary of Galapagos Horse Friends
I am Angel Ramon. I am a psychologist by profession and a certified facilitator for Horse Guided Empowerment® / MarzMethod®, I feel very happy about it, because I can be an empathic person with people and animals. I am a resident of the Galapagos Islands and I love living here because it is a safe and amazing place.
Within Galapagos Horse Friends I am the secretary, the same one that carries a lot of responsibility, but also satisfaction. In addition, I can interact in harmony with the horses in freedom and share my experiences and knowledge with those who visit us.
The reason why I am part of this organization is because of its mission, which is aimed at animal welfare, taking as its central axis the education of the population to reach a culture of respect between humans and animals.
NATALI RAMON
Treasurer of Galapagos Horse Friends Foundation
Hello. I am Natali Ramon. At Galapagos Horse Friends I am the treasurer, my activities are carried out with full commitment and responsibility, to provide clear and transparent accounts. My professional education is Economist, and it fills me with joy to be able to contribute with my knowledge to this social project. My reason for being part of the foundation is that I love what we do in it, since we all work to achieve the well-being of equines.