Connecting migrant and refugee women through cycling
Girls on Bikes provides a safe and supportive space for women from diverse backgrounds to come together, meet new people and connect with the Canberra community while learning a new skill to improve their health and wellbeing – cycling!
Now in its second year, the course is modelled on Pedal Power’s Cycle Well Learn to Ride program which teaches basic bike skills to adults who have never ridden a bike or want to refresh their beginner skills. In the Girls on Bikes program, participants are provided with a free bicycle and helmet to help them continue on their cycling journey at the end of the course.
The program is held under the auspices of Pedal Power ACT, and run by a team of passionate volunteers, including previous Girls on Bikes participants who have now been trained as cycle instructors.
Want to get involved?
Find out how you can volunteer, donate a bike, or enrol as a participant
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Testimonials
It’s never too late to learn.
“Girls on Bikes has taught me to conquer a fear – a fear of falling, obviously! I thought I was the only woman out there who didn’t know how to cycle, but I’ve realised there are many of us out there and it’s never too late to learn.”
– Nabs
It felt like a miracle!
“This is such a good experience – they take you right from the basics and you’re all in it together. When I first started riding, it felt like a miracle.”
– Joyce
Mum can do it, so anything is possible!
“Having a child, it is wonderful to show an example to her. Mum can do it so anything is possible, even at this age!”
– Yolanda
Now I ride my bike with my family around our community.
“When I first enrolled I was determined to learn how to cycle so that I could enjoy the Canberra outdoors with my family. This was something I wanted to do before I hit 40! Through the support of the trainers and the incredible generosity of the Canberra community who donated their bikes, I realised that Girls on Bikes were well equipped to not only teach us but also get us riding in the community. Now I ride my bike with my family around our community, and best of all, I get to train other women who were just like me to learn this new skill and get mobilised and empowered.”
– Mumbi
