Women's Lake District Project
Women in the Lakes
In July 2008, ACF took a step forward in their ambitious attempt to empower Muslim women and build a bridge between Muslim women and female members of the Police Force. The team of 17 Muslim women and 3 female members of the Police Force, supported by ACF and the Institute for Statecraft and Governance, engaged in a range of activities which developed leadership skills for both domestic settings and in group or partnership environments.
Over the period of three days, participants enjoyed taking part in activities including canoeing, abseiling, mountain climbing, shooting and mental challenges. The activities broke down barriers and created a relaxed atmosphere where women could adjust to the socially mixed environment. The activities stimulated adrenalin and self-belief in Muslim women, and steered towards creating a “one unit, mutual objective”, giving a human face to the concept of equality. In addition, the participants went away with the knowledge and confidence to engage in positive dialogue on issues affecting their daily lives. The exercise allowed ACF and the Muslim participants to see the potential for the police and armed forces’ to engage with the community in both a formal and informal setting.
The Journey
Besides physically challenging activities, participants also undertook mentally engaging tasks, for example, a mock emergency scenario, which offered an insight into the complexities that professionals face in such situations. The Personal Social Responsibility (PSR) element of the project was conducted by Defence Academy member Chris Nel, along with MoD members, politicians, police and the wider non-Muslim community. The definition of PSR was analysed, and the development of a tolerant and resilient community discussed.
Success is Ours
This commendably innovative project brought together inspired women and transformed them into confident, empowered and strong individuals with the zeal to reach aspire for more in life. Participants went away with the knowledge, leadership and teambuilding skills to tackle the issues that they and other community members face.