In East London, a group of Muslim women is breaking barriers and challenging cultural taboos by taking to the waterways, inspiring others to engage in sports without compromising their faith.

At the forefront of this movement is Dilruba Begum, 43, who guides a kayak along a canal, her paddle gently cutting through the water.

“Out here, you can be anyone,” Dilruba reflects, savoring the freedom that the water offers.

Two years ago, Dilruba, overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, discovered a free, women-only paddle sports program in her community.

Now, as a qualified paddle sport instructor, she helps other women—many from marginalised communities—explore water sports they once believed were out of reach.

The program, launched by local housing association Poplar HARCA, has grown from 18 participants to around 70, many of whom, like Dilruba, had never imagined themselves on the water.

The initiative’s impact goes beyond the physical benefits of sport. Dilruba and eight other women, including Atiyya Zaman, 38, have now qualified as instructors and formed London’s first all-female, Muslim-led boat club, “Oar and Explore.”

The club, which caters to women of diverse backgrounds, operates in one of London’s most economically disadvantaged areas—Tower Hamlets—using the borough’s extensive canal network to create access to “blue spaces.”

Breaking Barriers
For Muslim women, participating in water sports presents unique cultural and religious challenges. Many, like Naseema Begum, 47, faced cultural taboos, especially regarding modesty and the hijab.

Naseema, who now teaches alongside Dilruba, wanted to show that “you can wear anything and go in the water. As long as you’ve got the right equipment… anyone can take part.”

Her own niqab has never been a barrier, and the program’s inclusive approach to attire has made the sport accessible for local Muslim women.

Affordability is another key factor. Private boating clubs often charge prohibitive fees, a barrier for women managing household finances.

This community-led initiative removes that obstacle, offering women the chance to learn and participate in water sports without sacrificing their budget or responsibilities.

Beyond the physical activity, the water offers emotional solace. Dilruba describes it as “an escape,” a place where she can reflect and find peace.

For Atiyya, too, kayaking provided a much-needed release from the stresses of parenting and work during the pandemic. Both women emphasize the mental health benefits of connecting with nature through these activities.

With plans to raise funds for their own boats and storage, the women of “Oar and Explore” are determined to continue breaking down barriers. They aim to inspire future generations of Muslim women, proving that water sports are not only accessible but an empowering space for growth, community, and self-discovery.

As Dilruba puts it, “The enjoyment and confidence I’ve built from this, I want to pass it on to others and tell them there’s more to life.”

Source: About Islam