THE pandemic caused havoc in working environments with the majority of people removed from offices, and although people thought this would mean less workplace stress, for many it actually increased, albeit manifesting itself in a different way.

What research has shown is that working hours have changed due to always having access to emails and notifications. The ‘always-on’ work culture for a lot of people has become worse. The requirement for team development and new ways to communicate with staff has now never been so important.

One person who recognised the changes in working environments is Emma Jane Clarke and she established her company, Martinstown Lodge, earlier this year to help both companies and individuals in this particular area.

Based in Athboy, Co Meath, Emma uses the power of horses in her workshops to help build team development. “In light of the impact of Covid over the last year, we believe that companies and individuals need space for time away from the new normal, time to reflect, and a space to create, innovate and move forward. This is the opportunity that we provide at Martinstown Lodge, all in a safe and beautiful space located in an idyllic rural outdoor Covid-safe setting. It is the opportunity we all have working outdoors to support people connected with the countryside, and with horses in particular,” she explains.

Emma wants to make a difference. “I want to use all the skills I have developed to date to help people ‘get out of their own way’ and support them to achieve their full potential,” she says.

For many, this is a new concept, but Emma says that this is an innovative method of transformational professional development used by companies throughout the world.

Emma herself has no shortage of qualifications. Over the course of her own career, she has attained a BSc Ag, Executive Coaching & Corporate Wellbeing Diplomas, EAHAE Equine Guided Leadership Trainer (EAHAE International Association for Horse Assisted Education) and HSI Level 1…IMI Mediation.

All these qualifications have helped her develop this business.

Leadership skills

Emma also brings her own equestrian experience to the table. “I have worked in the industry on and off from a young age. I have worked with Sport Ireland as a senior leader for over the last decade. We purchased Martinstown Lodge in 2018, which was once operated as a successful riding school. We now run a small DIY yard and have established an equine-centred leadership training. This takes all my experience and learning to date working as a leader to now work with individual business owners and companies, and in particular female leaders, to help them progress in their roles. This in turns helps company performance,” she added.

Since opening the business this year, Emma said that there has been huge interest and the fact that horses are used is in no way a turn-off. “There is no horse riding involved, the horse provides a supportive catalyst for transformational change, increasing self-awareness of one’s approach and impact on others in a powerful and non-judgemental way. This is an effective and proven developmental process that is evidenced to help people unlock their full potential as highly effective leaders.”

For some there is an element of fear of the horse, but this is used in a positive way. “Yes, there can be attendees who have a fear of the horses but we work with individuals on this. In some ways even working through that fear has benefits beyond the direct contact with the animals, the fear that can hold us all back in fulfilling our potential. We take each individual on where they are and encourage them to step out of their comfort zone, all in a safe and supportive environment designed to promote learning.”

Workshops

These workshops are tailored for various groups in particular, women-empowerment workshops, businesses and corporate – leadership and team development.

“As it is a new start-up business, it can sometimes be hard to sell this new concept,” Emma explained. “This work is very innovative and a relatively new sell to companies to invest in sending their staff. In the area of innovation, it is important to promote and market a concept which might be something an organisation has never tried before. I can absolutely guarantee that once they come to work with us, are open to learning and open to change, that the results will speak for themselves! Sales would be one of the biggest challenges but we are working hard in this area and also availing of support available through our Local Enterprise Office whose support has been a massive help to bring our business to the next level.

“I enjoy making a difference and helping people, through working with our horses on the ground, supporting people on their transformational journey. The work we do can apply equally to people who have experience with horses as well as those who don’t.”

Emma Jane Clarke was in conversation with Emer Bermingham