People That Make Bradford Sparkle – Hop-On cofounder Fozia Naseem

A big thank you to Visit Bradford! Last month, they invited our cofounder Fozia Naseem to feature in their new campaign ‘People That Make Bradford Sparkle.’  You can find a summary below. But why not read the full piece on Visit Bradford’s website and discover more People Who Make Bradford Sparkle!

We’ve been looking for the People Who Make Bradford Sparkle – those people in our communities who have gone the extra mile to make us smile. We want to shine a spotlight on the individuals that have spread a sparkle of joy throughout the district this year.

Today we’re celebrating Fozia Naseem one of the founders of Hop-On Bike a growing community of 2,500 new cyclists, nominated for their commitment to bringing people together through sport and inspiring positive changes designed to last a lifetime.

Along with Najma Khan and Shahida Kishver, Fozia established Hop-On two years ago to encourage people to be physically activity who perhaps wouldn’t normally engage in sport. Open to all, the Hop-On sessions aim to build confidence, reduce isolation and break down barriers.

Up until the Covid-19 lockdown in March 2020, Saturday sessions took place every week in Lister Park, with Fozia and the Hop On team of instructors and volunteers leading a mixed group of members through their paces with classes tailored to people’s needs. On average, 80 people gather together at the park with everything from adult and children learn to ride lessons, through to road safety for bike commuters and people who want to improve their sporting level. Social and group rides also take place on other days. The social rides explore different cycling routes across the district, stopping for a cuppa and a chat, making for a relaxed and fun way of enjoying exercise.

Fozia is passionate about the positive benefits that cycling and in particular group exercise can bring. For Fozia, it’s more than just about the bike. “The benefits are huge, of interacting with other people and making new friends. We see the power of sport. Physical activity improves our physical, emotional and mental wellbeing, and connections between communities.”

Thanks again to Visit Bradford. Read the full piece on Visit Bradford’s website.