The volunteer who never has to be asked

Every Riding for the Disabled group has someone like Maanasa. The volunteer who quietly arrives before everyone else. The one who’s already filling feed buckets, collecting ponies from the paddocks or preparing the arena before anyone has even thought to ask.

If something needs doing, chances are she’s already doing it.

For the past two years, Maanasa Dasari has volunteered twice a week at North Canterbury Riding for the Disabled, bringing a calm confidence, warm smile and willingness to help wherever she’s needed.

At just 18 years old, she has become someone riders, volunteers and coaches know they can rely on.

Every Thursday morning, Maanasa rides her bike several kilometres to RDA. Once the gates are unlocked, she’s straight to work – mixing feeds, distributing buckets, collecting ponies and helping prepare everything before riders arrive.

By the time the first session begins, much of the behind-the-scenes work has already been done.

But that’s just the beginning of her day.

Whether she’s side walking alongside a rider, leading a pony, helping train young horses or supporting a new volunteer through their first session, Maanasa approaches every task with patience, kindness and quiet confidence.

Those around her often comment on her maturity.

Despite her age, she remains calm under pressure, learns quickly and generously shares what she knows with others. She is always ready to lend a hand, never waiting to be asked, and has become a role model for newer volunteers joining the team.

Maanasa builds genuine connections with everyone around her, particularly the riders, taking the time to understand each individual and helping create an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported and valued.

Her coaches describe her as thoughtful, empathetic and attentive, always noticing when something isn’t quite right and quietly stepping in to help.

Whether she’s encouraging nervous riders, bringing creative energy to activities or helping organise events, Maanasa has a way of lifting the people around her.

Maanasa embraces every opportunity to learn, willingly taking part in training, asking thoughtful questions and continually looking for ways to improve. Her knowledge of horse welfare, health and safety, and the RDA way of working has made her a trusted member of the team.

As one fellow volunteer shared:

“I love chatting with Maanasa. We’ve covered loads of topics! It’s great to talk with someone who is such an attentive listener and has interesting ideas to share.”

Another reflected that even when facing challenges in her own life, Maanasa’s focus remains on making sure everyone at RDA has a great day.

Volunteers are at the heart of Riding for the Disabled.

Across Aotearoa, thousands of people generously give their time to support riders, care for horses and create welcoming communities where people can thrive.

People like Maanasa remind us that making a difference doesn’t always happen through grand gestures.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as arriving early, noticing what needs doing, and helping with a smile.

It’s volunteers like her who make the magic of Riding for the Disabled possible every single day.