Black Girls Hike, a UK-based organization that promotes diversity and inclusivity in the outdoors, has recently been awarded a £50,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This grant will enable the organization to expand its reach and open up Britain’s landscapes to new audiences.
Founded in 2019 by Rhiane Fatinikun, Black Girls Hike aims to create a safe and welcoming space for black women and girls to explore the great outdoors. The organization organizes hiking trips, camping trips, and other outdoor activities, with the goal of encouraging more diversity in outdoor spaces and breaking down barriers that may prevent black women and girls from accessing these spaces.
The £50,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund is a significant milestone for Black Girls Hike. It will allow the organization to expand its activities and reach more people across the UK. With this grant, Black Girls Hike plans to organize more hiking trips and outdoor events, as well as develop educational programs and resources to promote diversity and inclusivity in the outdoors.
Rhiane Fatinikun, the founder of Black Girls Hike, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the grant, stating, “This grant will make a huge difference in our ability to reach and empower more black women and girls to experience the beauty and benefits of the outdoors. We are incredibly grateful to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for their support and belief in our mission.”
The National Lottery Heritage Fund, which distributes funds raised by the National Lottery to support heritage and cultural projects, recognized the importance of Black Girls Hike’s work in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the outdoors. The grant was awarded as part of the “Kick the Dust” program, which aims to engage and involve young people in heritage and cultural activities.
Ros Kerslake, Chief Executive of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, stated, “We are delighted to support Black Girls Hike in their mission to open up Britain’s landscapes to new audiences. Their work is not only important in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the outdoors, but also in connecting people with their heritage and cultural roots.”
The grant will not only benefit Black Girls Hike, but also the wider community. By promoting diversity and inclusivity in the outdoors, the organization is helping to break down barriers and create a more welcoming and inclusive society. The educational programs and resources developed with the grant will also provide valuable knowledge and understanding about different cultures and perspectives.
The impact of this grant goes beyond just the outdoor community. It is a step towards a more diverse and inclusive society, where everyone feels welcome and represented in all aspects of life. Black Girls Hike is leading the way in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the outdoors, and this grant will only further their mission and impact.
As we continue to navigate through a challenging time, where the importance of nature and the outdoors has become more evident, it is crucial to ensure that everyone has equal access and opportunities to enjoy these spaces. Black Girls Hike’s work is not only promoting diversity and inclusivity, but also inspiring and empowering more black women and girls to connect with nature and reap its many benefits.
In conclusion, the £50,000 grant awarded to Black Girls Hike by the National Lottery Heritage Fund is a significant achievement and a testament to the organization’s important work in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the outdoors. With this grant, Black Girls Hike will continue to break down barriers and open up Britain’s landscapes to new audiences, creating a more diverse and inclusive society for all.
