Discover the inspiring story of Dominique Pernthaner, an equestrian influencer blending her love for horses with youth empowerment.
Dominique Pernthaner’s journey into the world of showjumping is one not defined by privilege but by pure passion and dedication. Unlike many riders who hail from equestrian dynasties, Dominique’s story began humbly. Born into a family where horses were not a given, her mother made a life-changing decision when she bought her first horse when Dominique was just one year old. This moment planted the seed for a life centered around horses, teaching her valuable lessons that would extend far beyond the stable.
At the age of five, Dominique had her first riding lesson, and soon after, her family made the decision to move to a riding stable nestled in the Austrian countryside. From that moment, Dominique’s bond with horses was solidified. She spent years involved in every aspect of horse care, from mucking out stables to training and educating young horses. Her dedication paid off as she achieved success in national and international competitions up to 1.40 meters. Yet, it wasn’t just the victories that shaped her journey. It was the life lessons learned along the way, responsibility, teamwork, and a deep respect for the animals she worked with.
A Social Pedagogue’s Unique Approach
But Dominique’s story took an unexpected turn when she chose to pursue a career as a social pedagogue in youth work. Many might see the worlds of showjumping and social work as distant, but for Dominique, the skills required in both fields are remarkably similar. “In equestrian sports, you learn to read the needs of a horse, understand its limits, and work within those parameters. The same is true when working with young people. It’s about truly seeing them, recognizing their struggles, and helping them find their way,” she explains.
In her role as a social pedagogue, Dominique focuses on advocating for young people, particularly those whose voices are often unheard. She believes it’s crucial to stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult. This ethos is rooted in her own experiences growing up, and she uses her position to empower youth, ensuring they know their worth and potential.
The Intersection of Showjumping and Social Media
Today, Dominique channels her dual passions, youth empowerment and showjumping, into her social media presence. Through her online platforms, she documents her journey with her seven-year-old show jumper. What makes her story unique is that she bred the horse herself and has been by his side from day one, shaping both his career and their relationship. Through her content, she strives to highlight that equestrian sport is not just for the elite; it’s for anyone who has the heart and dedication to pursue it.
Her platform is not just about sharing her victories. “I want to show people the reality behind the sport,” she says. “It’s about hard work, perseverance, and the ups and downs that come with it. There’s no such thing as perfection, and that’s okay. It’s about progress, not perfection.” This honest, transparent approach has helped Dominique build a genuine following of people who admire her authenticity and approach to both horses and life.
Her story also highlights the importance of caring for horses holistically. Dominique strongly believes that horses can only perform at their best when they are balanced, physically and emotionally. Too often in modern horse management, their social needs and time spent in natural environments are overlooked. For Dominique, a strong partnership between horse and rider is built on mutual respect, understanding, and patience. “A hard hand can only take you so far,” she says. “It’s about nurturing the horse’s talents while addressing their weaknesses with kindness.”
A Brand Built on Values and Passion
What sets Dominique apart in the crowded world of equestrian influencers is her deep commitment to her values. She doesn’t just showcase her achievements; she shares the challenges, the moments of doubt, and the lessons learned along the way. In a sport often criticized for envy and competition, Dominique’s philosophy emphasizes solidarity over rivalry. She believes in fostering a sense of community, where riders support each other rather than tear each other down.
Her work in both equestrian sports and social pedagogy represents the idea that success is not about being the best in the traditional sense. It’s about resilience, passion, and learning from both triumphs and setbacks. Dominique is reshaping the narrative around what it means to be successful in equestrian sports by balancing her ambitions with her role in social work, creating a platform where authenticity and inclusivity take center stage.
The Future of Showjumper Dominique
As her influence grows, Dominique remains grounded in her roots. She continues to share her journey, always committed to showcasing the highs and lows of the sport. In the future, Dominique plans to expand her reach by creating more content focused on horse care, social pedagogy, and the intersection between her two worlds. “My mission is to inspire others, especially young people, to pursue their passions, no matter where they come from,” she says.
For Dominique, the dream is not just about winning competitions; it’s about creating a community where people can come together to celebrate their love for horses, share their stories, and empower each other. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or someone just starting their journey, Dominique’s story is built on hard work, passion, and a desire to make the world of horses accessible to everyone.
Join Dominique’s Journey
To learn more about Dominique Pernthaner’s journey, explore her work, or connect with her community, follow her on Instagram at @showjumper.dominique. Dive into the world of equestrian sports with authenticity, passion, and a deep love for horses.
