The Journey so far ‘Bristol Steppin Sistas’

A walking group that aims to reach out to local women of colour in the Bristol area to encourage an interest in walking, wellness, and bonding over similar lived experiences has now reached out to over a Thousand women.

Sophie Brown, founder, writer and wellness advocate, shares many of her thoughts and hopes for the future of the 'Steppin Sistas'.

What I am working on is stretching things out more. Working on more walks, we have been collaborating with other walking groups for larger walks further afield in Wales, Dorset and Coastal areas around Bristol. And in the process of producing our own radio show at Ujima, a very well established radio station in Bristol.

We’ve also been getting involved with kit evenings with Cotswold outdoors and raised funding to support us with kit and coach hire.

We now have 24 trained outdoor first aiders, which is a positive for the group as I received support from two marshals on each walk, each walk has at least 25 to 30 women, that I organise for 4 times a month. Also we have 6 walk leaders just about to go through the assessment for a lowland Level 3 qualification.

I have also been shortlisted for two awards with the Bristol MTM award for health and wellbeing and special recognition, which is very exciting; I am also a little anxious as I am not the best public speaker, but am very grateful as well.

I have always believed and experienced that nature is a natural environment, which can help you to feel more grounded, less stressful and a natural healer for most health problems, especially mental health.

I am just taking one day at a time and hope to see the group grow gracefully. I would like more help with expanding the group and running of the group, with other committed people who have a passion for supporting others with their wellbeing, but at the moment I am just doing what I can by myself, by choice. Its not about the money, as I always believe in helping others should be priceless.

I would like to see more diverse included on TV, country, walking  and farming programmes with women of colour as we aim to promote community and inclusivity, creating a safe space for all. I find it frustrating sometimes why we would be less fortunate to appear on these type of programmes. Maybe, one day soon.

How to get involved?

We have a Facebook group that we recommend joining in order to get more involved. It is a very welcoming community, and its where we post information about our walks.

The Facebook group, titled ‘Bristol Steppin Sistas (All women of colour welcome)’ can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/223891986148385/

Featured Image:  Sophie Brown