We are proud announce that our participant, Farah, has been named as Barclays Community Icon, recognising her outstanding commitment to improving her own wellbeing while inspiring and supporting others within her community.
Since joining our Health & Wellbeing programmes in February 2024, Farah has become a valued and respected member of sessions designed specifically for South Asian women across Burnley and Pendle. Through her positivity, enthusiasm and willingness to embrace new experiences, she has become a shining example of the life-changing impact community programmes can have.
Finding a Place to Belong
Farah first joined in 2024, as a participant of our ‘Progression Not Perfection’ and ‘Huddle for Half Time’ programmes, which provide culturally sensitive, safe and welcoming spaces where women can improve their health, wellbeing and confidence while building meaningful social connections.
As a mother of three daughters, Farah was drawn to the programmes’ inclusive approach and quickly immersed herself in everything on offer. Since then, she has consistently attended sessions and become a trusted presence within the group.
Embracing New Opportunities
Since joining Farah has taken part in a wide range of activities aimed at supporting physical, mental and social wellbeing. These have included adapted cycling sessions delivered in partnership with British Cycling, health talks focusing on topics such as breast cancer screening and mental health, creative workshops exploring Burnley’s textile heritage, employability sessions, wellbeing walks and chair-based exercise classes..
She has also volunteered at a local foodbank through a partnership with Islamic Relief, demonstrating her commitment to supporting others and giving back to her community.
A Dream Come True at Turf Moor
One of the highlights of Farah’s journey came when she attended her very first football match at Turf Moor – a lifelong ambition fulfilled through her involvement with Burnley FC in the Community.
Reflecting on the experience, Farah said:
“Thank you so much. A first for me personally to watch a match at Turf Moor in Burnley where I’ve lived my whole life. I used to look out my bedroom window to hear the chants and wished I could be there.
A first for my daughters to have such an opportunity too. Thank you for fulfilling a childhood dream of mine.”
Why Farah Was Nominated
Farah’s nomination recognises far more than her participation. She has embraced opportunities outside her comfort zone, encouraged fellow participants, helped shape sessions through her feedback and become a role model for other women within the programme.
Her story embodies the values of inclusion, empowerment and positive change, demonstrating how community programmes can break down barriers, improve wellbeing and create lasting connections.
Congratulations, Farah!
Everyone at Burnley FC in the Community would like to congratulate Farah on her nomination for the Barclays Community Icon Award and thank her for the incredible contribution she continues to make to our programmes and local communities.
We wish her the very best of luck and look forward to seeing her continue to inspire others through her remarkable journey.
Our Huddle For Half Time and Progression Not Perfection programmes are kindly supported by the Premier League, Professional Footballers Association
#PLPFAPlayersFund | #PLMoreThanAGame