Archery GB's Project Rimaya has been named as one of the finalists at the British Muslim Awards 2024.
The awards are one of the most prestigious events in the British Muslim community, recognising and celebrating the achievements and contributions of British Muslims in various fields.
Project Rimaya has been shortlisted in the Social Inclusion category for the awards that will take place at the British Muslim Heritage Centre, in Manchester on 10 May.
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A spokeswoman for Oceanic Consulting, who are hosting the awards, said: “The nominees have shown exceptional dedication and talent in their respective fields, and we are honoured to recognise their contributions to society.”
Project Rimaya (the Arabic word for archery) was developed in 2019 by Archery GB with funding from SportsAid to reach Muslim communities and enable them to access a sport which is culturally significant to them. Archery has a long and rich history in Islam, and the sport is helping Muslim communities to feel inspired and united, supporting their physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.
Currently, the project has 23 partners across the Midlands, North and South of England, as well as national partners including the Muslim Sports Foundation and the Muslim Scout Fellowship
One of the outcomes of Project Rimaya is to increase the number and quality of aligned coaches and volunteers within ethnically diverse communities. Through collaboration with our Rimaya partners, 108 Archery GB Instructors have been qualified as well as 29 Session Coaches and one Development Coach.
Gayle Pink, Archery GB’s Head of Participation, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Project Rimaya has been shortlisted for this award. Project Rimaya’s success is due to our amazing partners. Collaboration is fundamental and we work with each individual partner/organisation to identify a bespoke archery offer which best suits their needs.
“We want to learn and evolve and help overcome barriers to archery. To be shortlisted for an award is testament to our collaborative approach and I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in developing, shaping and enhancing Project Rimaya.”
Khadija Patel, from girls’ youth club Krimmz Girls which has introduced archery sessions to women and girls in Bolton, said: "Project Rimaya is close to my heart and has made a huge impact with our participants. Being able to participate, learn and teach others a Prophetic sport has given them an opportunity to be physically, mentally and spiritually active, all in a safe environment looking after their religious and cultural needs."
Chris Guerin, from Ninestiles Academy, in Birmingham, said: "Through the support of Project Rimaya, we have been able to introduce children to archery who would otherwise never have had the chance. This has included many from disadvantaged backgrounds or with disabilities. Project Rimaya has also allowed us to take part in competitions against other schools and give our children the opportunity to represent their school. We are delighted that Project Rimaya has been nominated for an award, and we hope the project continues to grow over the coming years.”
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