Why should People of Colour Paddle?

By Adya Misra, Founder

There aren't many people in paddlesport who look like me, and even fewer in leadership roles within the paddling community. I'm talking about authentic leadership, not performative platforming. It took me years to feel like I belong in this world, in this sport.

I don't want others like me to feel this way. People of Colour Paddle is a nationwide community initiative to increase participation of people of colour in paddlesports within the UK with the view of connecting often urbanised communities back to nature. I often use the word “normalise” participation instead of “inspire” on social media because I don’t want people to be like me, I want them to have a much better experience and a range of opportunities that I didn’t have. I would like to see a future where it is normal for people of colour to participate in paddlesports and are encouraged by their families, their wider community.

My coaching philosophy revolves around empowerment and confidence building; these principles firmly underpin this project.

WE ARE NOW A SPORTS CLUB- YAY.

What does this mean? I hope this means we can create a truly intersectional and inclusive paddlesports club that spans the UK. I am working on some membership options and will be reaching out to the community soon. The support on social media, emails, in person from everyone has been truly inspiring.

Two of my lovely friends Anna Stishova (Bolton) and Janine Alexander (Bristol) are joining me in leading the way for a new type of paddlesports club. We look forward to paddling with many of you in 2023.

I WAS ON THE TELLY

I was recently invited by Sky Sports News to be part of their documentary "Aquaphobia" which had been created for Black History

Month in the UK. Aquaphobia delves into why so few black people are swimming in the UK. Did you know that 93% of Black and South Asian adults do not swim? That is not a good number.

I received the questions they were going to ask me, about People of Colour in Paddlesport and why South Asian communities may not be taking part in water based activities, I started crying. I was already overwhelmed at the thought of representing our entire community- as diverse as we are- having to think about our barriers and talk about them to anyone watching was incredibly difficult.

If you're interested in watching the documentary focussing on swimming you can click here. If you'd like to see the episode about other watersports you can click here.