Muslim Women Break Barriers with Paddle Sports on London’s Waterways

As a Muslim woman who wears a hijab, I never imagined I would be able to participate in watersports like canoeing and kayaking in London. For years, I assumed these activities were off-limits for someone like me who dresses modestly for religious reasons. However, that changed when I discovered Salaam Watersports, an organization making paddling accessible to Muslim women. Read below about “Muslim Women Break Barriers with Paddle Sports on London’s Waterways”.

A New Adventure Begins

My journey with Salaam Watersports began when I stumbled across their website while researching outdoor activities in London. As soon as I saw photos of hijabi women confidently paddling kayaks and canoes, I knew this was something I had to try for myself. The prospect of exploring London’s beautiful waterways while also challenging cultural stereotypes was hugely appealing to me.

I immediately registered for one of Salaam Watersports’ beginner sessions. When I arrived at the dock, I was greeted by the founder, Nadia, who warmly welcomed me. She could immediately sense my nervous excitement. “Don’t worry, we’ll start nice and easy,” she reassured me.

First Steps on the Water

After fitting me with a lifejacket and helmet, Nadia gave me a basic paddling tutorial on land before helping me climb into my own single kayak. Once settled into the kayak, I tentatively dipped my paddle in the water. I couldn’t believe I was actually doing this!

Nadia paddled alongside me, patiently guiding me through the basics while pointing out wildlife and landmarks. Her calm and encouraging presence put me instantly at ease. As we paddled under bridges and around houseboats, I marveled at the new perspective of London I was gaining from the water. I had lived in this city for years, but discovering it by kayak made it feel brand new.

About 30 minutes into the paddle, we stopped for a water break. “So how are you feeling so far?” Nadia asked. “This is amazing!” I responded. “I can’t believe I’m actually kayaking in London. I feel so powerful and free out here.” Nadia smiled knowingly hearing my reaction.

Joy in Every Stroke

As we continued on, I grew more comfortable maneuvering the kayak with each paddle stroke. My nervousness was replaced by pure joy and confidence. I lost all track of time as I paddled happily through little channels and under stunning bridges.

Too soon, we had looped back to our starting point at the dock. As I climbed out of the kayak, I was absolutely buzzing with adrenaline and excitement. “That was the most wonderful experience ever!” I gushed to Nadia. “I can’t wait to go again.”

Nadia gave me a high five. “You did so well for your first time out! And yes, there are so many places we want to take you paddling next.” As we parted ways, I practically skipped back to my car, eager to tell all my friends about my adventure.

Regular Adventures

Since that fateful first paddle, I’ve been kayaking and canoeing regularly with Salaam Watersports. I’ve now progressed to confidently paddling 12+ miles in a session as part of a group of Muslim women explorers. Through Salaam Watersports’ trips and courses, I’ve discovered parts of London’s waterways I never knew existed. I’ve spotted herons, swans and even seals while paddling through tranquil canals and rivers. I’ve made wonderful friends and felt a special sisterhood bonding with fellow Muslim women as we navigate waters new to us.

Building a Sisterhood

Beyond the paddling itself, I’ve found Salaam Watersports incredibly empowering on a deeper level. As Muslim women, we face so many cultural barriers and restrictions. Watersports are traditionally very male-dominated, and the cumbersome gear certainly doesn’t make it easy for women who dress modestly for religious reasons.

Yet at Salaam Watersports, we break all of those barriers down. We modify gear to suit our needs. We support each other in braving challenging conditions. And we gain immense confidence in our bodies’ capabilities out on the water. With every stroke of my paddle, I feel physically and mentally stronger.

A Transformative Journey

The transformative impact was perhaps most apparent to me when several friends and I completed a multi-day canoe expedition organized by Salaam Watersports. Over three days, our team of hijabi women paddled the entire length of the Grand Union Canal – covering 60 miles! Prior to that, my friends and I had barely even heard of canoeing. Yet there we were, camping under the stars and fearlessly portaging our canoe over steep canal locks each day.

When we finally paddled triumphantly into Little Venice at the end of our expedition, cheers ringing out from crowds gathered on shore, we cried tears of pride and joy. We had proven our strength, courage and perseverance not just to ourselves, but to all the onlookers who likely didn’t expect to see a team of Muslim women achieving such an athletic feat. It was incredibly empowering.

A Call for Support

Salaam Watersports has been life-changing for me and so many other Muslim women. But there is still much work to be done. Currently, Salaam Watersports relies heavily on donations and grants, limiting how many women they can serve and trips they can run. My dream is for them to have a permanent club and facility providing Muslim women affordable access to watersports.

I tell all my friends about Salaam Watersports and urge them to get involved too. Because every woman deserves to feel the freedom, joy and strength I’ve found through paddling. Watersports are for all of us, no matter our culture, background or dress. With Salaam Watersports blazing the trail, I hope more Muslim women like me will take to the waters of London and beyond. Our community’s horizons are as unlimited as the rivers we paddle. I hope you like reading “Muslim Women Break Barriers with Paddle Sports on London’s Waterways”.