Founded in 2001 by Ahmed Versi, editor of the Muslim News, the overarching aim of the Muslim Women’s Sport Foundation (MWSF) is to enable Muslim women to participate in a variety of sports without compromising their Islamic values.
The coverage, facilitation and awareness for Muslim women's sport is virtually non-existent and there are few role models for Muslim women to follow, hence the formation of the Muslim Women's Sport Foundation.
The foundation is also the official UK body to the International Women’s Islamic Games providing Muslim women with a player pathway to higher competition for those with the ambition to represent Britain.
The MWSF is a single not-for-profit organisation based in London. It is run by a group of dedicated volunteers of diverse experience and backgrounds, with a passion for both sport and fulfilling the aims of the Foundation.
Now the current chairperson, Rimla Akhtar has also represented MWSF at international futsal competitions.
'Enthusiasm'
"There are many Muslim women in this country who love to play sport and compete and this enthusiasm has been made clear through the work we've done. However, there is a definite lack of funding and facilities that cater for the needs of groups like ours."
Rimla was asked what it was like to be a Muslim in modern London, she explained “‘Modern London gives you a choice as a person, and that’s what Islam’s about as well.
I don’t think that should affect anyone else – neither should what anyone else does in London affect a Muslim. I’ve been involved in sport pretty much from the moment I could walk, and in football since 2001.
"When I started university I got involved with the football team and the British Muslim Women’s futsal team – we participated in the Muslim Women’s games in Tehran.’
Rimla spoke about the ongoing debate regarding Muslim women’s clothing when taking part in sport. “I don’t think I should have an opinion on how everyone else should dress. I have an opinion on how I should dress.
'Confident'
"If I’m in an environment where there are men around, I’m happy to continue playing sport, as long as I’m wearing my hijab, my arms are covered, my legs are covered, my hips are covered.
"I feel confident in playing, and that’s what I’ve done historically. With the futsal team it’s easy for us – it’s in an all-female environment where there are no cameras, so the girls can take off their scarves and play in T-shirts and shorts, whatever they feel comfortable in. It depends on the environment you’re in.”
Rimla also believes that the next generation of British Muslims will benefit hugely from having role models competing at the top levels of sport.
“Amir Khan the boxer or Sajid Mahmood the cricketer are the kind of people who should be out there and giving a good example of our faith. They portray a good image of our religion.”
