Year
2022
Country
UK
OADs
18
EUR
5.000
Target Group: South asian muslim women
Impact: 3-day camping trip for beginner women with 6 participants
Project description
Wild camping expedition – Scotland
Taking 6 women who have never been camping before on a wild camping expedition. The expedition included a day of skills and learning – mountain skills , camping skills , navigation and preparing for a wild camp. The rest of the days the women started their expedition in the
Scottish highlands , wild camping , learning how to put tents up, cooking on a stove and other outdoor skills .
Project Data
Where did the activities take place?
Scotland – Fort William
When did the activities take place?
29th – 2nd October
How many days and hours per day of physical activity were included in the activities
day 2 and 3 (5 hours each day plus overnight stay camping )
How many participants took part in the activities?
6
Describe the target group that took part in the activities
Women from underrepresented communities , muslim women , women from inner city areas and from a ethnic minority.
What was the average age of participants?
29-40
What was the physical activity level of the participants?
Beginner
How many boys/men?
Women only
How many girls/women?
6 women
Money received from the Coalition in €:
5.000 EUR (split in two projects)
What did you use the money for (guides, gear, accommodation…)?
We are splitting the money for two camping weekends and the second camping weekend the money was used for:
- accommodation
- food
- mountain leaders
- kit hire
- travel
- camping equipment
- workshops
Project Testimonials
How did I feel about the project before it started?
Nervous but also excited; nervous because I am not a seasoned trekker and I have little to no camping experience so this adventure would be something entirely outside of my comfort zone, but excited because the project was being managed by the Wanderlust Women. As I've followed their journey across various treks and expeditions and seen how they've positively impacted the lives of other women, I knew I'd be in safe hands and - as such - I felt very excited about being chosen for this opportunity.
What was a challenge?
You might think I'd say hiking 8km up a steep incline with 10kg worth of gear on my back or sleeping in a rain-lashed tent but, in all honesty, those were the highlights that made the experience memorable! The biggest challenge was getting to Fort William from London. It was a stroke of luck that allowed me to hitch a ride at the half way point with another member of the group but the journey prior was very challenging. My coach from London to Leeds (which was due to depart at half past midnight, was delayed by almost an hour) and I managed little to no sleep during those six hours of being on the road. I arrived into Leeds sleep-deprived and with a stiff back but still excited for the adventure that awaited! Rates for flights to Glasgow and overnight trains were unreasonably high so this journey seemed like the only appropriate option.
What was your favourite part of the project?
Too many to count! Trekking through Glen Nevis with a group of incredible women - all of whom had a story to tell... taking in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, becoming aware of just how strong and resilient my body and mind are as we endured gusts and constant rain, and making core memories with new friends.
How will this project influence your outdoor adventures in the future?
This expedition has helped to increase my confidence when it comes to tackling outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, camping, etc. - not just from a physical ability standpoint but also as an outwardly Muslim woman. The mission undertaken by the Wanderlust Women to diversify the outdoors and campaign for more inclusivity in the natural environment is one that resonates with me deeply. Thanks to the Wanderlust Women, I feel comfortable and confident in making a place for myself in the great outdoors.
Some Other Things
Would you recommend applying for an #itsgreatoutthere grant?
10 out of 10
How useful would you say the support provided by the Coalition was to your project?
It’s been amazing , super helpful , easy.
It’s opened up s many doors for us and the women.
Contact
Amira Patel
Email: amirawanderlust@gmail.com