When Community Futures Oxford sponsored a Woodstock Chamber of Commerce award category, Alisha Wilson became aware of its services and began following on social media. After applying, Alisha was awarded a Community Futures Oxford Youth Entrepreneur Grant in 2024.
Having formerly operated out of another facility, Alisha is better able to positively influence the energy of the experiences she offers now that she has her own location. “I create this wonderful space of belonging.”
It has also given her more freedom with scheduling. “Bringing my business, Transitions Equine Assisted Learning, here was a huge success and also kind of terrifying,” she said. “I’m glad it has been well-received. We offer wellness, leadership and life skills using horses as our guides. It’s a passion project.”
In her previous corporate roles, Alisha said she’d always had an entrepreneurial spirit but when someone suggested she own her own business, she began to entertain the idea. “Things fell into place and here I am!”
Like many entrepreneurs, getting known has been challenging but she’s making progress with collaborations and leveraging social media. Her workshops don’t involve horseback riding; but rather working with and learning from her herd. Working full-time in addition to operating her business, Alisha has also contracted a therapist, Bonnie Taylor, for some programming and has received funding to enable employee certifications. Brie Wittmann, Equine Facilitator, contributes to programming and Alisha’s children also help out.
Her seven horses have all found their way to her starting with Thunder – depicted on her logo – for whom she paid a dollar, saving him from being euthanized. Others have been rescued from as far away as Napanee.
Most of the programs she offers are based on trust-building, relationships, connections and reinforcing existing soft skills as well as setting boundaries and communication. Workshops and programs are fully customizable and include corporate events, ladies’ nights, date nights, Reiki, mindfulness, summer camps and collaborative events such as a Ponies & Pottery night with the Kiln Room.
To face business challenges, Alisha works with a business coach who helps her sort through issues. As an entrepreneur, Alisha advises that it’s important to be able and willing to pivot while keeping aligned with values. She also advises not to do business with friends. “Do your research and fully understand what you are getting into. The blood, sweat and tears are rewarding,” she said.
She is most rewarded when she witnesses the self-realization and awareness that people leave with. Horses provide a sense of calm and can even sense people’s heart rates and help regulate them. The interactivity with the herd, while being mindful about the program is powerful. “I love watching participants grow from understanding what’s holding them back,” Alisha said. “My specific business model is to ensure people leave connected, happy and refreshed.”
