The Brighton Multicultural Women’s Cycle Club began in June 2021 as our MESH project was looking for fun outdoor activities that could be made Covid safe.
A cycling club in Preston Park was set up with support from Bricycles, Sustrans, Brighton Bike Hub and Brighton Bike Share. Our group of multicultural women included migrants and refugees from all parts of the world, some of whom were completely new to cycling. They took off around Preston Park Velodrome and the project was an instant hit, quickly becoming much more than a response to Covid, as the women joining the group loved the fun and independence they got from learning to cycle.
Just six months later, at the end of 2021, the project became constituted and applied for the Council’s BAME Engagement fund, supported by TDC’s staff Cicely and Amy.
The BMWs now have an Iraqi Chair, Egyptian Vice-Chair, Argentinian Secretary, Iranian Treasurer, Syrian Signatory and Algerian Group Ride Leader, and are raring to go this year.
Below, three of the committee enjoy a winter cycle and planning session.
"The Brighton Multicultural Women’s Cycle Club is all about connection, liberation, empowerment and upskilling. Women from Argentina to Zimbabwe are supporting each other to learn to ride bikes, get fitter, improve English and have fun outdoors."
Cicely, Senior Engagement Worker
2021 was an incredible year for this little project.
