The team

Chairperson - Dr. Annæ Buchmann 

 

Dr. Annæ Buchmann has had a lifelong zeal for horses. She is an internationally recognised authority in the field of equine recreation, leisure and tourism, with over 25 years of experience as an academic lecturer, researcher, author, editor, grant assessor, and consultant. Annæ is a charter member of the Equine Research Network (EqRN), and member of numerous working groups and professional networks. She is experienced in all aspects of community engagement, leading stakeholder communication and consultation, and contributing to decision-making and policy development. Annæ enjoys delivering engaging talks and presentations, and facilitating workshops for different audiences and stakeholder groups.

 

Now back in Aotearoa New Zealand, Annæ is an amateur competitor, horse trainer and riding coach specialising in holistic horsemanship based on Classical Dressage principles. A core tenet of her training philosophy is fostering the confidence and learning of both horse and rider. With time and dedication, she helps her students gain an appreciation and understanding of ethology and biomechanics, and develop a comprehensive toolbox of effective exercises and valuable resources. Annæ remains a keen learner attending clinics and symposia, and is part of a project investigating advancements and cultural shifts in horsemanship across the globe.

 

Deputy Chairperson - Dr. Carol Shwetz

 

Dr. Carol Shwetz is a veterinarian, writer, and lifelong student of the horse. Raised on a farm in northern Alberta, she knew from early childhood that her life would be devoted to animals. After graduating from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 1986, she spent a decade in mixed animal practice before focusing exclusively on equine health.

 

Her further studies in equine dentistry, nutrition, hoof care, acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, chiropractic care, biomechanics, and horsemanship shaped a perspective that looks beyond isolated symptoms to the deeper connections within the horse’s body and environment. Writing has become her ‘medicine” of choice’, offering horse owners clarity and a strong foundation for sound decision-making.

 

Today, Dr. Shwetz brings this experience to her role within Etica’s Charitable Trust, where she serves as an independent investigator—unbound by industry agendas. In this capacity, she advocates for the horse by weaving together scientific research, veterinary practice, and intuitive insights drawn from the lived wisdom of horses. Her collaborative work advances new pathways of understanding and care that honor both science and the innate wisdom of the horse.

Treasurer & Secretary - Kerry Helm BCOM 

 

Kerry Helm is a successful New Zealand businesswoman, qualified accountant, and passionate advocate for equine welfare. Coming to horse riding later in life, Kerry began her equestrian journey with fresh eyes and an open heart — free from the traditional industry mindset. Her adult introduction to horses gave her a unique, unfiltered perspective on how the equine world operates, and where meaningful change is needed. Driven by compassion and practicality, Kerry first became involved with a racehorse rehoming and rescue charity. While that experience deepened her commitment to horse welfare, it also highlighted a difficult truth: true reform must come from independent, transparent, and welfare-first initiatives.

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As a mother of three teenagers and owner of two thriving businesses, Kerry combines strong leadership, financial expertise, and an unwavering moral compass to champion a fairer, kinder future for horses. Her vision is simple — to create a movement where welfare, honesty, and long-term wellbeing are placed above profit and performance. Kerry believes that real change in the horse industry starts with courage — the courage to see things differently, speak honestly, and act with integrity.

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Becks Nairn - Equine Dissectionist

Becks Nairn is an internationally recognised classical rider, breeder, and equine dissectionist from Aotearoa New Zealand, dedicated to deepening our understanding of the horse from the inside out.

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With over 18 years of anatomical and taxidermy experience, Becks brings a unique blend of artistry, curiosity, and compassion to her work. Through her renowned equine dissection clinics and ever-growing Patreon platform, she reveals the hidden stories within the horse — exploring structure, pathology, and the often-unseen causes of discomfort and dysfunction.

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Her mission is simple yet profound: to bridge the gap between theory and truth, helping riders, trainers, and therapists truly see the horse beneath the surface. Each clinic offers an honest, hands-on look at anatomy, movement, and the physical realities that shape equine performance and welfare.

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Becks’ approach is bold, unconventional, and deeply empathetic — blending classical horsemanship with scientific curiosity. Her work has inspired horse professionals around the world to question assumptions, look closer, and honour the horse with greater understanding and integrity. Her pioneering work into pelvic dysmaturity is directing a paradigm shift within the equine community.