Introducing Equestrian Zoie Brogdon
by Shelby stephens
Los Angeles native Zoie Brogdon, also known within equestrian circles as "ZoZo Noelle", has made an imprint on the sport of horseback riding and is becoming a household name. Although the rising star is one of the few equestrians of color, she is determined to solidify herself amongst the best. With the help of her family, management team, and mentors, Zoie has secured many accolades and awards for her dedication to the sport.
Growing up Zoie’s parents enlisted her in many activities like tennis, soccer, gymnastics, and track. Zoie hadn’t really connected with sports until the day she rode a horse for the first time. Zoie described the feeling like finding a missing piece to a puzzle, she was hooked. Since 2018, she has won several championship awards. Zoie represents a new generation of equestrians who are destined to make their mark.
“One summer, out of convenience, my mother signed me up for a horseback riding camp near her job. When she picked me up on my first day at camp, the camp counselor told her ‘this is her thing,’ and that she should find a horseback riding program for me where I could learn how to compete. Who would have known at the time that this one-time camp experience would shape my life forever,” Zoie shared.
With the help of the Compton Cowboys, at nine years old Zoie joined the Compton Junior Equestrians (CJE) program which helps create diversity within the sport. Founder Randy Savy describes Zoie as a trailblazer inspiring other Black girls and boys to pursue their interests. Now as a college freshman, Zoie believes riding is more beautiful in color. Zoie trains with Victoria Faerber and has recently joined UCLA’s esteemed equestrian team. seasoned veteran, Faerber has devoted countless hours to Zoie’s development. Under her guidance she has won numerous awards, has been featured in many media outlets, and is a nationally recognized showjumper. Zoie shared that the connections she’s made with fellow equestrians and trainers keeps her motivated and focused on her athletic goals.
“Victoria’s commitment to my growth has been invaluable, and I am eternally grateful for her mentorship. Aside from the thrill I get from riding horses, what has kept me in love with the sport are the amazing connections I've developed with horses – particularly my own. There’s something special about working in tandem with a horse. It's like you’re part of a team. Each horse teaches you something different and challenges you to be better - inside and outside of the ring.”
Along with Faerber, Zoie’s idolizes other women in the sport like Mayisha Akbar, Kathryn Kusner, Jessica Springsteen, and Donna Creek. More than just role models, these women have shaped Zoie’s competitive outlook and has helped mold her in her equestrian journey. Each of these remarkable women have played a crucial role in her journey, teaching resilience, determination, and the power of believing in self. Their reach extends beyond the equestrian arena, impacting the way young women approach challenges and opportunities.
Mayisha Akbar, the founder of the Compton Jr. Posse. A powerful figure in the equestrian world who started the program to keep kids on horses and off the streets. Kathryn Hallowell "Kathy” Kusner, an American Olympic medalist in show jumping, was the first woman on the U.S. Equestrian Team, the first licensed female jockey, and the first American woman to win an Olympic medal in equestrian competition.
Jessica Springsteen (a silver Olympic medalist) has also become a mentor. Zoie has participated in a few clinics Springsteen offers. Riders learn about the port and the importance of giving back to their community. Donna Cheek, a trailblazer who made history as the first Black woman on the U.S. Equestrian Team in 1981 and the first equestrian in the Women’s Sports Hall of Fame. Although they have never met, Zoie describes her as her North Star.
When asked about the influence of female equestrians, Zoie shared, “Mayisha was more than a role model; she was an inspiration. She saw something special in me early on and believed in my potential, which really set my passion for horse riding ablaze. The encouragement and stories Kathy has shared with me are a constant source of motivation. Jessica’s encouragement during competitions and her support during tough times has been incredibly motivating. It’s a dream of mine to one day be on a team alongside Jessica.”
Navigating the spotlight has its challenges but Zoie credits her parents, family members, and her extended Compton Cowboy family for keeping her on the right path. Relying heavily on her team for guidance, their collective wisdom, support, and encouragement has been pivotal in her success as an athlete. She adds, “my mom is the epitome of a barn mom. Although she had no prior experience being around horses, she has spent countless hours at the barn with me and is dedicated to ensuring I get to my lessons and competitions. I’ve been so fortunate to have received many opportunities for interviews, documentary shorts, and endorsements resulting from my riding career, and my dad has been instrumental in helping me navigate it all.”
All of Zoie’s accolades commemorate her undeniable talent and emphasize the hard work and determination she pours into the sport daily. “I joined Compton Jr. Posse (now known as CJE) after my early camp experience. The Compton Cowboys are my extended family who have made sure that I did not face this equestrian world alone. Although they are Western riders, they have been immensely supportive of my journey in English riding. They have a vision of me becoming the first English rider to achieve significant success, and their support means the world to me.”
She encourages young riders to identify other interests that bring them joy and pursue their other hobbies and passions., as a means to become a well-rounded multifacted person. “It's so important for young riders to know that being an equestrian is just one part of who you are. I'm not just into horse riding. I also love art and have won several awards for my artwork. Fashion is another big passion of mine, and I'm always jamming out to music and dancing when I can. Maybe you're into painting, playing an instrument, or something completely different. Let people get to know you on and off the horse. It makes life so much richer and can even give you a fresh perspective in your riding. Being a great equestrian is awesome, but having other passions and talents, that’s what makes you really special!”
Stay updated on Zoie and her future plans, follow her on Instagram @iamZoieNoelle.
Left: Zoie Brogdon with Bodega Bay
Right: Zoie Brogdon & Jessica Springsteen
Below: Zoie Brogdon & Kathy Kusner
