Jessica Jordaan
Denver, Colorado
CEO of WarhorseUSA
How long have you been part of the horse world?
I first discovered my intense love for horses at an early age while growing up in the Wild West: Cody, Wyoming, the “rodeo capital” of the world. I was quickly hooked, and horses became a large part of my life. I began working with a local ranch offering trail rides and caring for the horses. I also worked for the rodeo, and oh boy, was that an experience. I’m so grateful that wild horses are getting so much national attention right now! It’s a cause worth fighting for and one of the reasons I started my non-profit for wild horses called WarhorseUSA.
What part do you play in the horse world?
I am currently a member of the Equus Foundation, Cottonwood Riding Club, US Equestrian and the Denver Polo Club as well as a Herd Member, where I bring a love and understanding of equine issues. I am committed to sharing my time, knowledge and dedication to benefit the equine community around Colorado, the country and the world. In addition, I have a tremendous passion for all horses, especially wild American mustangs.
What’s your favorite thing about what you do?
My favorite thing about what I do with WarhorseUSA is the education and the knowledge about mustangs and wild horses that I can provide while helping offer sanctuary for those in need. I was inspired to create change for America’s wild mustangs after learning of the grave injustice that awaits many of these animals.
There are approximately 53,000 wild horses in government holding facilities run by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The cost to the American taxpayer to round up and house these horses is in the millions. Often injured and terrified, the horses are rounded up, torn from their bonded families and sent to holding facilities, sometimes for life. We owe our wild horses who helped build this country so much more than we’ve given them.
The funds WarhorseUSA raises provide assistance with herd, documentation, fertility control, special range projects and promotion of the land and wild horses. Off the range, the funding provides training, adoption and education about mustangs and burros and offers them sanctuary. We also foster a connection with children and adults through community education, outreach tours, field trips, overnight retreat programs, therapeutic programs and clinics in order to increase awareness and education.
What’s your biggest achievement?
My most significant personal achievement, other than my family, was a 10-year career as an international model, being published and featured in numerous television shows, magazine publications and articles. In 2018, I had the privilege to serve Colorado with the Mrs. Colorado America organization, I was able to share my time and experiences with the charities that are close to my heart. I will be producing the Last Foal photo documentary, which documents the hardships of wild horses living in the Namib Desert in the country of Namibia.
What are your goals for the future?
Curating my own luxury equestrian clothing line, where a portion of the proceeds from the clothing line will be donated to equine causes.
What’s the best thing about your life?
The absolute best thing about my life is my husband and children. I’m blessed with an amazing support system and surrounded with love. People often refer to us as the “modern-day Brady Bunch.”
Best kept secret about what you do?
When not spending time with my incredible husband and children, I can be found hacking or jumping my horses, Renegade, Blood Diamond and Luciano. I can also be found training with my coach for my competitive season, taking polo lessons, volunteering, working out or traveling.
