ESOL learners took part in a presentation by tutor Nadine Foxon-Munawar in collaboration with Forum CIO, introducing the This Girl Can campaign.
Learners from HTAE’s ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) provision recently took part in an engaging presentation delivered by tutor Nadine Foxon-Munawar in collaboration with Forum CIO, introducing the national This Girl Can campaign.
The session highlighted the aims of Sport England’s This Girl Can initiative, which encourages women and girls of all backgrounds, abilities, and lifestyles to get active and feel confident in doing so. The campaign particularly recognises that some groups, including Muslim women, can face additional barriers to taking part in physical activity.
As part of the session, learners were invited to share their own thoughts and experiences around exercise, including what activities they enjoy and the challenges they may face in accessing them. The presentation created a safe and open space for discussion, helping to ensure that all voices could be heard.
The visit also introduced an opportunity for learners to take part in wider engagement work across the city. Around 20 Muslim women are being recruited from local organisations to form a volunteer group, with up to four places available for ESOL learners.
Participants who choose to take part will attend two sessions in June, delivered by Forum CIO, Sport England and Hull City Council. These sessions will be held in neutral venues, with a strong emphasis on confidentiality, allowing women to share their views openly. Travel expenses and childcare costs will be covered, and participants will receive a thank-you voucher in recognition of their time.
The initiative aims to better understand the experiences of Muslim women in Hull and help shape more inclusive and accessible opportunities for physical activity across the city.
The session was well received by learners and provided a valuable opportunity to contribute to an important city-wide conversation, while also raising awareness of the support and opportunities available to help women get active.
