Cycle Sisters
1691. Sarah Javaid
Sarah Javaid, from London, set up ‘Cycle Sisters’, encouraging Muslim women to get on their bikes and cycle together, improving physical health and wellbeing whilst building community connections.
Sarah started the initiative in 2016 as a small group of friends and relatives based in Waltham Forest, having seen the need for a dedicated Muslim women’s cycle group offering supportive, inclusive and sociable rides. ‘Cycle Sisters’ has since grown to include hundreds of members and is currently operating in seven locations across London, with Sarah actively expanding the initiative to set up new groups in other London boroughs. While activities were restricted during lockdown, she also helped members remain active by running virtual cycling challenges and helping people set personal mileage goals.
In a personal letter to Sarah, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“Thank you for your brilliant initiative ‘Cycle Sisters’.
“As an enthusiast myself, I am passionate about the benefits of cycling and I am delighted that you are helping other women feel confident and able to enjoy the sport.
“Undeterred by the restrictions of the pandemic, you kept your groups fit and well with virtual activities. I hope that you are all enjoying the chance to cycle together again in person.”
In response to receiving the award, Sarah said:
“It’s an incredible honour to receive the Points of Light Award. This achievement recognises the important work that Cycle Sisters is doing to address inequalities in cycling and inspire more Muslim women to cycle. Our volunteers and community are at the heart of what ‘Cycle Sisters’ is all about, and I dedicate this award to all the amazing volunteers who help Muslim women and their families to access the life-changing benefits of cycling.”