It can be hard to make connections with people outside your own bubble, especially if this is not your country of origin and the Bike Buddy scheme enables that.

Meet Solange…a Bike Buddy and donation session volunteer with our Birmingham team. Solange was matched with Nada and have since become good friends because of the Bike Buddy programme. Solange had a chat to us about her volunteering experience…

When did you hear of The Bike Project?

I was scrolling through my Facebook pages and a Bike project entry came up inviting people to sign up for their Bike Buddy scheme. I love cycling and chatting so it felt like volunteering for The Bike Project was something I would enjoy.

What drew you to our mission?

My own interest in getting as many people as possible cycling. I am Dutch, so am always amazed at how little people cycle to go from A to B. To provide bikes to refugees so that they can do just that seems a no brainer. It can be hard to make connections with people outside your own bubble, especially if this is not your country of origin and the Bike Buddy scheme enables that.

Why do you like volunteering with The Bike Project?

I love the diversity of people I get to meet and chat with, both those who work at The Bike Project and those who come to pick up a bike. Such a great bunch of people!

Would you say you’ve learnt skills you ordinarily wouldn’t have, if you hadn’t started volunteering with The Bike Project?

To look after my bike better!

Why do you think the work The Bike Project does, is important?

To give refugees access to bikes is genius – the freedom of movement it provides refugees is invaluable, particularly since public transport is not cheap.

Why do you think others should support The Bike Project?

The Bike Buddy scheme is a way of meeting people outside of your buddy and to learn about the lived experiences of refugees.

What’s been your favourite thing about volunteering with The Bike Project?

Going for a cycle ride and chat with my Bike Buddy.

Thanks Solange! Feeling inspired by amazing volunteers’ stories? You’re in luck, we are currently looking for admin volunteers to support our Bike Buddy programme. Email us if you’re interested!