Aisha Ahmad Suleiman
Founder & Executive Director
"Some journeys begin with ambition. Mine began with a horse."— Aisha Ahmad Suleiman
Long before polo became my profession, I found myself captivated by the beauty, intelligence, and spirit of horses. That fascination eventually led me onto a polo field — a place that would shape the course of my life.
As one of the few Black female polo players to emerge from Northern Nigeria, my journey has been anything but conventional. Entering a sport traditionally dominated by men required resilience, discipline, and an unwavering belief in what was possible. Publicly documented milestones — from my first tournaments to national recognition and Forbes Inspirational Woman recognition — reflect that journey, but they tell only part of the story.
What transformed me most wasn't simply competing. It was the realization that sport has the power to open doors, build confidence, and connect people across cultures.
Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself not only to playing polo but also to introducing others to the sport through coaching, youth development, and equestrian education. Founding Black Eesh Equestrian Academy reinforced my belief that access and opportunity can change lives.
Ride Next Polo is the natural continuation of that belief. It was created to ensure that the next generation of players experiences something many young athletes rarely have the chance to experience — international competition, cultural exchange, meaningful friendships, and personal growth.
From a first ride to the Kano Polo Club's biggest cups.
Within two years of her first tournament, Aisha had beaten a historically male-dominated field to win two of Northern Nigeria's most prestigious polo trophies — cementing her legacy in a region where she remains the only female player.
On the field — Kano Polo Club
Forbes Inspirational Woman, 2021
- 2017
First Ride, First Tournament
After watching a match at the Kaduna Polo Club, Aisha begins training under a local beginners' coach and plays her first tournament within the year.
- 2018
Dantata and Sawoe Cup, Kano International Tournament
Competing out of the Kaduna Polo Club, Aisha wins the Dantata and Sawoe Cup at the Kano International Tournament, becoming the first Northern Nigerian woman to claim a major polo title.
- 2019
A Double Governor's Cup
Aisha adds the Governor's Cup at the Port Harcourt International Tournament and the Governor's Cup at the Kano International Tournament to her record — two major wins in a single season.
- 2020
Sports Woman of the Year
Aisha is recognized at the Northern Pandora Awards for her impact on sport in Northern Nigeria.
- 2021
Forbes' 30 Inspirational Women
Named to Forbes' list of 30 Inspirational Women for Women's History Month, bringing international recognition to her work opening polo to new players.
- Today
Founding Ride Next Polo
Aisha takes her belief in polo without borders international — building a tournament circuit that brings the sport to countries hosting it for the first time, starting with Morocco.
See where her next chukka is taking the sport.
Season One brings Ride Next Polo to Morocco — a full tournament week built with local clubs, invited international teams, and public spectator access.
Ride Beyond Borders.
Ride Next Polo is not simply about where you play. It is about who you become along the journey.