About Katariina Cozmei & Cozmei Oy
Närpes Hästakademi and the brand are part of Cozmei Oy, founded in 2006 in Turku.
The company combines a deep passion for classical and academic riding, equestrian martial arts, and holistic horse wellbeing under one roof.
The founder, Katariina Cozmei (née Albrecht), is a versatile and warm-hearted equestrian professional known for her approachable, positive teaching style. Over the years she has trained and competed with trotters, show jumpers, eventers, and dressage horses — yet never felt confined to a single discipline.
Today, Katariina focuses on Classical and Academic Art Of Riding, Equestrian Martial Arts (especially horseback archery), and the broader study of equine behaviour, biomechanics, and communication.
She began competing internationally in horseback archery in 2015, representing Finland in World Championships (2016 & 2018) and European Championships (2017 & 2019).
She also practices and teaches Working Equitation and Skill at Arms.
Education & Qualifications
Vocational Qualification in Horse Management – Ypäjä Equine College, 2000
Finnish Equestrian Federation Coaching Level I (2008)
Coaching Level II – Dressage (2011)
Professional Qualification in Sports Coaching – Equestrian Coaching (Level IV), 2019
Vocational Qualification in Saddlery – Ypäjä, 2021
Vocational Qualification in Animal Training – Axxell Brusaby, 2022
Solution-Focused Coach – Turku Summer University, 2022
Specialist Qualification in Animal Training – Taitotalo, 2023
Additional roles:
Official instructor for the Finnish Horseback Archery Association
Chairperson of the Equestrian Martial Arts Club Finland (until 2024)
Former Chairperson of SRJL ry (2018–2020)
Philosophy
Katariina’s approach cannot be neatly placed into any single school of thought.
Her inspiration comes from the French classical and academic traditions, combined with modern psychology and a philosophy of gentle self-development.
The term she uses to describe her path is Cultivated Riding – a form of educated horsemanship that seeks understanding, balance, and beauty through knowledge, empathy, and discipline.
The focus is always on sustainable, horse-friendly riding — developing a partnership where horse and rider move in balance, both physically and mentally, whether the goal is competition or quiet harmony at home.
More about Katariina’s thoughts can be found in her blog articles and on Instagram: Sivistynyt Ratsastus / Cultivated Riding.
Collaboration & Network
Katariina & Närpes Hästakademi work in cooperation with a wide network of professionals across Finland and Europe.
We offer consulting, clinics, and tailored training in various equestrian disciplines — and can guide you further if you need help finding the right specialist.
Katariina teaches in Finnish, English, Swedish and Spanish.
You are warmly welcome to reach out — we are always happy to help