Toronto: Fitriya Mohamed, a passionate sports enthusiast, has taken a remarkable initiative to create a basketball league exclusively for Muslim women and allies in Toronto. Fueled by her own experiences of struggling to find suitable tournaments and leagues as a Muslim girl, Fitriya aims to increase participation rates and promote diversity within the sport.
The Muslim Women’s Basketball League, founded and led by Fitriya, has garnered significant attention and support since its inception. The league serves as a platform to encourage young Muslim girls to engage in basketball and provides them with the necessary space and opportunities to develop their skills.
In an interview with Olympics.com, Fitriya emphasised the importance of representation, stating, “Representation is truly so important. I realised that with more visibility we have in spaces, more young Muslim girls are coming to play basketball.” By offering a supportive and inclusive environment, the league aims to inspire and empower its participants, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
The success of Fitriya’s endeavour has been evident as the league prepares for its second edition, scheduled to commence in August 2023. The positive impact it has had on the young girls involved is particularly notable. Fitriya expressed her desire for the league to have existed during her own basketball journey, as it would have provided her with the inspiration and support she needed to excel. Witnessing the enthusiasm and support from the community surrounding the young girls participating in the league is a testament to the positive impact of the initiative.
The Muslim Women’s Basketball League not only offers a platform for Muslim women to showcase their skills and love for the sport but also paves the way for a new generation of women and girls in Toronto and beyond. By breaking down barriers and creating opportunities, Fitriya is instrumental in creating a more inclusive and diverse landscape in the world of basketball.
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