At the heart of our work at TaAF is the belief that when people begin to shift their mindsets, change their approach and build new skills, they are the key to changing the systems and places around them for the better.
As we approach the end of our Accelerator funding phase, we are celebrating the people who have been on this journey with us, those who’ve not only changed themselves, but helped shape the communities and systems around them for the better.
Saarah believes that faith and fun can go hand in hand. Through introducing physical activity into her local madrassah, she’s been helping children feel more connected and motivated in their learning, and importantly enjoy learning about their faith.
Supporting her mosque’s evening school is more than a role for Saarah, it’s an opportunity to build something grounded in faith and culture. She’d noticed how long school days and technological devices were negatively impacting on the children’s focus and energy levels. She felt compelled to make learning more engaging, active, and joyful.
Doing things differently, together.
Saarah already believed in taking a different approach, but her connection with TaAF and the Active Madrassah workstream gave her the confidence, tools and reassurance she needed to take the next step – she has played an active part in the Female Leadership Academy programme and developed a sound knowledge of physical literacy
“We didn’t need convincing to do things differently, we just needed confidence. TaAF gave us space to trust our instincts and learn from others.”
Through new relationships, meeting new people and shared learning, she began to feel part of a wider movement, a community if people who all wanted to support children’s learning and wellbeing.
Being responsive to the needs of children today
Putting her learning into practice, Saarah and her colleagues at the Madrassah introduced active breaks, fun incentives, and a more responsive structure which matched the children’s energy after a full school day. They didn’t replace tradition, they enriched it.
“Even small changes, like a 15-minute break, made a big difference. The children were more focused and started enjoying being here.”
Ripple of change across the community
TaAF’s model for change came to life through this collaboration, shared learning and people having the freedom to adapt their practices. Saarah’s leadership, especially as a woman in a shared leadership role, has opened up space for new voices and ideas.
She shared her experiences with other Madrassahs, supporting the Female Leadership sessions, swapping ideas and showing what small and meaningful change can look like in faith settings.
Those small changes have sparked curiosity elsewhere, with more mosques keen to explore similar approaches.
“People saw that we weren’t doing anything exhaustive, just small changes that helped children thrive.”
Closing the enjoyment gap
Saarah remains focused on what matters most: children’s wellbeing, their engagement and connection to their faith. She’s been reassured by the support of her community and recognises that when people understand the intention behind change, they’re more willing to embrace it and move forward together.
Sport England has also highlighted that enjoyment is key driver for participation in sport and physical activity, closing the enjoyment gap matters. For Saarah, the biggest marker of success is simple – it’s how the children feel about the changes that have been implemented.
“They’ve had a full day of school, and yet they still show up to Madrassah and smile. That means something.”
Change in me, change the system
Saarah’s journey is one of growing confidence, trusting her instincts, and creating space where children can thrive. Through her leadership, rooted in humility and hope, she is helping reshape what leadership looks like in her community.
To learn more about Active Madrassahs visit the webpage here.