Brevan Plaaitjies, also known as Brev, is a second-year apprentice jockey at the South African Jockey Academy. He grew up in Eersterust, Gauteng, without a father, but he managed to survive and learn a lot on his own, with help from his mother.
Brevan attended Hillview High School, and his mother saw an advert for the South African Jockey Academy on Facebook. Brev decided to give it a try, and when he first got in contact with a horse, he knew in that moment that he wanted to be a jockey and that this was his purpose.
Brevan also loves playing soccer and is passionate about the sport. “Growing up, I to dream about becoming a professional football player, but being part of the South African Jockey Academy is an amazing feeling for me,” he said.
Brevan’s dream for the future is to make his mom proud and become a champion jockey one day. He has faced some challenges along the way, including learning to fight off negative thoughts and doubting his abilities. However, he is grateful for the people who pushed him and helped him overcome these doubts.
Brevan is proud to be an apprentice jockey and for his mom to have a child that is doing well. However, he is not yet where he wants to be and will strive to achieve even more. He believes that dedication and consistency are the main skills required to become a professional jockey.
“My advice for others is to be the best version of themselves, to be humble and brave even when you are not, and to never forget to set your heart ablaze,” he added. He says that the Hollywood Foundation has helped him to achieve his dreams and become the person he is today, and he is grateful for their support. Brevan’s story is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and never giving up on your dreams.
