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 fourth 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 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
