Meet The Team
Tonya Ellis CEO
Tonya Ellis became CEO of WSPC in January 2025, succeeding Mary-Joy Langdon. With extensive experience in equine leadership and instruction, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. A freelance equine instructor, she has worked with riders of all ages, abilities, and needs, creating a safe, engaging environment for development. She also plays a key role in training the Royal Veterinary College's student equestrian team.
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Tonya first joined WSPC as a senior instructor in 1992. Now, as CEO, she is committed to advancing the charity’s mission of providing riding and equine therapy for children, particularly those with special needs and physical disabilities. "I am honoured to lead an organisation that has transformed so many young lives. With our dedicated team, we will continue making a meaningful impact."
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Our People
There are many people involved in the day to day life of the Pony Centre but here is our core team, patrons and trustees.
The Trustees
Helen Holmes
Chair of the Board of Trustees
Helen Holmes is a solicitor and chartered secretary. She was the former Chair of RedR, Vice Chair of Global Health Partnerships (THET), and a Trustee at MS Trust.
Selma Hassabu
Deputy Chair of Trustees
Selma lives in West London with her husband, children all of whom are frequent visitors at the pony centre, as supporters and riders. With a long career as a financial services lawyer Selma has also always dedicated time to supporting communities, charities and causes close to her heart. Selma joined the pony centre as a trustee in March 2023.
Graeme Drummond
Treasurer
​Graeme is an accountant with a career across a range of commercial organisations. He has 2 children at university, 2 Miniature Schnauzers (much easier to deal with) and is a Man City fan. Once fell off a donkey at a school fair. Joined the Board of Trustees in February 2022.
Addy Windsor-Clive
Finance & Strategy
Addy started her career in venture capital before moving into the food industry, where she ran her own business. She joined the pony centre in 2020. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking for homeless shelters around London and looking after the ponies at the WSPC
Emily Thomas
EID officer
Emily joined the WSPC in 2021 but has been involved with the RDA since her teens. Currently working for an environmental organisation, she's been in fundraising for fifteen years and is passionate about raising money for good causes. Emily lives in Bedfordshire and has two boys, one cat and many garden birds!
Nichola Blackley
Secretary
Nichola is a Veterinary Epidemiologist. She has over 20 years’ experience owning and working with horses. She has also volunteered with the RDA for many years including assisting at competitions. Nichola lives in Hertfordshire and has two horses for her own, including an ex racehorse who she has retrained and successfully competed.