The idea blurred in motion
Midway through the first lockdown, people started to dust off their cycles and find ways to appreciate their home environment. At times what seemed like an isolated journey turned into a one of hope and determination for Aftab Rahman to maintain a newfound health regime.
While riding one day, Aftab noticed how isolated he felt amongst other cyclists. Aftab reached out to his fellow network, Mujahid (in Oldham), Abdal and Tauhid (in London), Shale (in Birmingham) and Shahin (in Coventry), to discuss how underrepresented cycling is.
After several long conversations over zoom, realising there are no inclusive cycling groups representing diverse communities, it prompted the idea to create a platform for communities who felt like they weren’t represented to come together.
The team came up with the idea to organise a national charity bike ride that would raise awareness for their newly formed Freedom50 cycling group, commemorating the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence.
The Freedom50 platform was born as a project that would deliver a range of cultural, arts/heritage, social and sporting activities whilst providing an opportunity to celebrate the heritage of the British Bangladeshi community.
Cycling from Oldham to Stoke, Birmingham, Coventry, passing through Nottingham to Luton and eventually arriving in London, everyone was excited at the prospect of the impact Freedom50 would achieve amongst communities nationally.
With Shale at its helm as the Chair of the charity bike ride, plans were coming together. The need to highlight and commemorate Bangladesh’s independence through a programme of initiatives also prompted concerns about Bangladesh’s future.
Climate challenges are the pressing challenges of our time; in Bangladesh, devastating effects have already displaced many families and continue to impact social development.
The team were adamant about Freedom50 taking action and helping to protect the future of children in Bangladesh. Knowing access to education is the most significant barrier for many.
With their connections at the Sircer Pasha Welfare Trust, they decided that all proceeds from the programme of initiatives would build a much-needed school in Jamalpur.
Today, Freedom50 has evolved, bridging many communities and welcoming people no matter their ability. It is constantly being shaped by many passionate and committed new members, keeping ideas flowing with a pipeline of future initiatives working together to help raise ongoing funds that support access to education at the SPWT school.
