Tell us about the inspiration behind Hiking Sisters.

I have always been passionate about nature and the outdoors, and I recognized that there were very few initiatives aimed at encouraging women, especially minority ethnic women, to explore and feel confident in natural settings. This realization inspired me to create Hiking Sisters, a space where women can come together, feel empowered, and discover the joys of hiking.

When did you decide to set up Hiking Sisters?

The idea for Hiking Sisters came to me earlier this year, in February, shortly after I became a qualified Lowland Leader. I wanted to share my love for nature and the numerous benefits it offers, from physical health to mental well-being, with other women who might not have had such opportunities.

How did you get the word out about Hiking Sisters?

To spread the word about Hiking Sisters, I utilized social media platforms, collaborated with local community groups, and participated in outdoor events. Word of mouth also played a significant role as the community grew and more women shared their positive experiences.

Hiking Sisters is all about empowering, exploring, and elevating women. In what ways do you achieve these positive transformative actions?

We achieve these actions by organizing regular hiking trips that cater to all levels of experience, offering support and encouragement to participants, and creating a welcoming community where women can share their experiences and challenges. We focus on building confidence through gradual exposure to more challenging hikes and fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.

Since starting Hiking Sisters, what sort of hiking adventures have been organized?

We have organized a variety of hikes, from easy local trails for beginners to more challenging day hikes in nearby national parks. We also organize women and children hikes, encouraging mums to involve their kids in outdoor activities, fostering a family-friendly environment.

When planning hikes, can you tell us about what is involved?

Planning hikes involves several steps, including scouting and selecting suitable trails, assessing the difficulty level, considering safety measures, and arranging logistics such as transportation and gear. We also ensure that we provide clear instructions and support for participants, including pre-hike briefings and post-hike debriefs.

What has been the largest group you have taken on a hike and how did you find this?

The largest group we have taken on a hike consisted of 30 women. Managing a large group required careful planning and coordination, including assigning group leaders and ensuring effective communication throughout the hike. It was a rewarding experience to see so many women come together and support each other.

What sort of impact have you observed is gained from engaging with outdoor activities?

Engaging with outdoor activities has a profound impact on both physical and mental health. Participants often report feeling more energized, less stressed, and more connected to nature and to each other. It also helps build confidence and resilience as women tackle new challenges and achieve their hiking goals

Can you share some success stories of Hiking Sisters?

One memorable success story is of participants who initially joined us feeling shy and unsure about hiking. Many of these women had never hiked before and were nervous about venturing into nature. However, after completing their first hike, they left feeling accomplished and happy, often expressing that they had done something purely for themselves. This sense of achievement and joy transformed hiking into their "happy place," where they felt empowered and rejuvenated.

What advice would you give to someone interested in setting up a similar outdoor adventure business?

My advice would be to start small and build a strong, supportive community. Focus on creating a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Utilize social media to reach a wider audience and collaborate with local organizations to gain visibility. Most importantly, stay passionate and patient, as building such a venture takes time and dedication.

What are your future plans for Hiking Sisters?

We plan to expand our offerings by organizing multi-day hiking trips and retreats, and to incorporate educational sessions on topics such as wildlife conservation and sustainable hiking practices. We also aim to partner with schools and youth organizations to encourage younger girls to explore the outdoors.

Are there any new projects you’re excited about that you can share with us?

We are excited to launch more women and children hikes over the summer to further involve mums and their kids in our activities. Additionally, we are planning multi-day hikes and camping trips that include mindfulness practices, promoting both physical and mental well-being

You can keep updated about Hiking Sisters via their Instagram account