Home Affairs Correspondent
A decade of dedicated work to break down barriers in sports is showing measurable results as the Muslimah Sports Association (MSA) reports significant growth in participation among British Muslim women. The organization’s latest Impact Report for 2023-2025 reveals how their community-led approach is creating new pathways to sport and wellness activities for a demographic historically underrepresented in athletic participation.
The newly released data comes as the organization celebrates several landmark achievements, including the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2024, adding to honours such as the National Diversity Award (2023) and Living Streets’ Charles Maher Award (2023). These accolades underscore the recognition MSA has gained since its founding in 2014 and subsequent charity status achievement in 2019.
The report documents substantial growth in the association’s reach, with the organization now delivering more than 15 weekly sports sessions featuring diverse activities from badminton and football to karate and tennis. This expanded programming has fuelled a remarkable 72% growth in membership, now representing women from 17 different ethnic backgrounds.
“Our latest Impact Report shows how far we’ve come in our efforts in delivery,” said Yashmin Harun, Founder and Chair of MSA. “We’ve grown in participation, increased and strengthened partnerships across London and taken steps towards influencing governmental policy. Most importantly we’ve made a visible difference towards access to sport for Muslim women.”
The association’s work addresses a well-documented gap in sports participation. National data consistently shows British Muslim women face disproportionately high barriers to physical activity, which MSA addresses through what they term “culturally responsive spaces.” Their mission focuses on creating environments where women can participate “without compromising their religious or cultural beliefs.”
Beyond direct programming, MSA has expanded its influence through strategic partnerships and advocacy work. Collaborations with organizations like Mind Charity have resulted in initiatives such as Positive Minds, a faith-sensitive mental health group, while partnerships with Frenford Youth Club have supported broader community wellbeing efforts.
The organisation’s advocacy arm has also gained traction, with the report noting increased representation in FA leadership roles and a presentation at the House of Lords. Their efforts to “challenge National Governing Bodies to ensure opportunities for BAME participation at an elite standard” have earned recognition including the ECFA Lioness Award (2023).
The comprehensive report suggests that while significant barriers to sports participation remain for Muslim women in the UK, MSA’s award-winning model demonstrates how community-centered approaches can create tangible progress toward making sports accessible and inclusive for all.
Photo: The MSA Dragon team competes in the 2025 Al Noor Boat Race. The Muslimah Sports Association, which has reported a 72% surge in participation among British Muslim women, uses sports like dragon boat racing to empower members and break down barriers. (Credit: Sylvie Beloub)
