New nature walks offer safe space for diverse women

A new walking group aimed at celebrating and supporting Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse women has been launched in North Devon, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and one another.

The project, titled Sense in Nature, is being led by Rose Young-French, a community activist and advocate for greater inclusion in local spaces. 

The first session of Sense in Nature will take place on Tuesday, March 18. Each session will be independent, meaning the group will vary from week to week.

As a Black British woman, Rose aims to create a safe and welcoming environment where women from diverse backgrounds can gather, enjoy the outdoors, and embrace their shared experiences.

Rose said: “This is a very innovative and important project for North Devon. It is an opportunity to challenge our current systems and break down barriers as a way of increasing representation for our Multicultural communities. I am really excited about the project and the chance to celebrate our diverse cultures and promote wellbeing in the backdrop of nature.”

Rose believes that this initiative is essential due to the lack of walking or nature groups specifically targeting Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse communities in North Devon. 

She points to the 2021 census, which shows that 4.7 percent of the population across North Devon and Torridge identifies as Black, Asian, mixed, or from another ethnic background. Despite this, Rose notes, there are no groups in the area that cater to these communities for nature walks or outdoor activities.

Rose, who has been living in Devon since 2015, has long been involved in community-driven projects that promote inclusion and diversity. 

She has previously led the Bideford aspect of Telling Our Stories, Finding Our Roots, a project that explored Devon's multicultural history, and has organised the Bideford Community Christmas Lunch since 2021, which regularly attracts over 90 attendees.

A Sense in Nature would like to say huge thanks to their funders, supporters and all the participants for their support in developing and making this project come to life.

Sense in Nature encourages women to step beyond their comfort zones, creating connections and fostering a sense of empowerment in a supportive, shared environment. The group is made possible through the efforts of Rose, the support of funders, and the participants who helped bring the project to life.