Ugrin Stanojevic, Serbia/Germany 2017-present
Iva is my "go to" person for all horse related things. Her approach to horses combines a mix of trainers and riders knowledge, as well as a great insight into health and well being. With this approach she coached me to a 2nd place in Serbian National Championships in 3 day event in 2017. Since then, I have consulted her numerous times regarding various issues and dilemmas about my riding, the training of horses and managing them. I have great confidence in her and her way of working with horses, as she has knowledge, experience and dedication. She is a complete horsewomen and a role model.
Iva was my trainer and instructor at "Sarajevo" Equestrian Club from 2019 to 2023. Under her guidance, I progressed from riding school student to a competitive rider, ultimately becoming Junior Showjumping Champion of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Every single day, I learned something new from Iva-whether it was about horse care, feeding or developing new riding skills. Iva not only teaches the fundamentals of riding, but also has the expertise to prepare riders for competition. Her knowledge and passion for horsemanship have been instrumental in my journey as a rider.
Mirjana Dragovic, Serbia 2004
I first met Iva Zivkovic in RTV Politika in 1995. At the time she was a reporter in regards to local and international political affairs and the editor of a sciences weekly programme involving themes from a range of science fields, exclusively high-tech domain.
At the same time she was, and still is a passionate equestrian. It gave her a solid ground to start a sole and unique television show on horses and equestrian sports touching a variety of topics thereof.
Iva went even further and studied equestrian sciences in England. As well, she was excellent at translation from Serbian to English and vice versa.
For as much as I know Iva, professionally and personally, any who works with her may see themselves as blessed ones. Though very strict in regards to time schedules and assigned tasks of references she is always very cooperative and ready to hear any opposite arguments to find benefit for all involved. Notwithstanding her strong features of individual play-maker she is far greater as a team-work player.
Ciska Hekelaar, Serbia 2024
Riding Serbian mountain horses with Iva an Klara in de golden hills was such an amazing experience. It is so nice to go for a riding adventure and not having to worry about the welfare of the horses. The welfare of the horses are their top priority, Iva is such a skilled horsewoman who puts all of her knowledge and passion into caring for and training her horses. Also riding in an area where the neighbors friendly wave while you ride across their land, no fences, overgrown tracks off the beaten path, creeks, impressive forest and steep trails is so beautiful. Not to mention the sunset over the golden hills that the area is known for.
Off the horse you also don’t have to worry about any shortcomings. If you’re lucky to be there in tomato season you get to have the best tasting sunkissed tomatoes you will ever have had. Pair that with some fresh garlic an Kajmak on bread and you will never want to have anything else anymore. Chill and read a book in the slow paced countryside, or engage in a good conversation, everything my heart desired was there.
Rawan Alsaraf, Kuwait 2016
Iva was my trainer in MRC in Kuwait, when I was back in Kuwait for holidays from my studies in Madrid. Riding in Madrid with the same trainer created many difficulties for me to adopt to riding in Kuwait with school horses, but Iva was one of very few, actually the only one, at the time that managed to offer me classes and exercise that were similar, challenging and fun as i would have undergone in Madrid. She offered me morning and evening classes even though only evening classes were offered to students because of my schedule. it was a pity when she had to leave for another offer abroad.
Aisha Alsayegh, Kuwait 2015
Iva was my trainer during her time at the Messilah Equestrian Club. Her patience and method created an excellent platform for me to hone my skill and overcome obstacles towards improving as a rider. She is an excellent trainer and mentor and it would be a privilege to work with her again.
Dorie Meerkerk, Cambodia 2008
I can highly recommend Iva as horse riding instructor. She gave me classes in Cambodia when working for the Cambodian Equestrian Centre. Her style is professional, with a lot of attention for rider and horse, so I learned a lot!