The Oakville Community Foundation announced on Dec. 17th the creation of a new memorial foundation to celebrate the life of Zara Buren. Her parents, Sabrina Haque and Robert Buren, created the Zara Buren Memorial Foundation to establish a legacy in loving memory of their youngest daughter.
Zara tragically lost her life at 14-years-old on September 21st saving her beloved horse, Monkey, who had become trapped in a marshy bog. Zara is remembered for her kindness, drive for excellence, passionate love of animals and dedication to her horse and the sport of eventing.
The outpouring of support and care for her loss was felt throughout Oakville and beyond and people wanted a meaningful way to pay tribute to Zara. The Burens started a GoFundMe campaign with the intention of creating a Foundation, and along with private donations to the Oakville and Milton Humane Society and other shelters, support has been resounding. The creation of the Zara Buren Memorial Foundation with the Oakville Community Foundation was made possible by the tremendous generosity of so many.
“It is hard, and in some moments impossible, to understand that our darling Zara is gone. She was our bright light, good and kind to her core, and dedicated to her family and her animals. She was exceptional, steadfast, and so very brave. Honouring her memory by doing good for others would have made her so happy.” – Sabrina Haque and Robert Buren
The Zara Buren Memorial Foundation will focus on helping youth with the desire, talent, and work ethic to pursue their passion. The Memorial Foundation will support the Zara Buren Memorial Award to be given annually through the Ontario Eventing Association, to a junior rider who exhibits a passion for eventing, sportsmanship and a commitment to their horse. Zara was a talented rider with an intense dedication to training and learning, always putting her horse first.
Zara’s family is grateful for the generosity of so many who made donations both big and small to help establish an enduring legacy in her memory.
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