30/07/2025
The Community Fun Day at The Bradford Park Avenue Sports Foundation in collaboration with ISSE brought together families, young people, and local organisations for a vibrant day of sport, learning, and community spirit.
A highlight of the event was the powerful panel discussion hosted by the Sports Campaign Against Racism (SCAR) which drew praise for its honest and inspiring dialogue. The panel featured an exceptional lineup of pioneers using sport as a platform for inclusion and anti-racism:
• Gerry Sutcliffe – Former Sports Minister
• Zohaib Rashid – Founder of Desiballers
• Sensei Mumtaz Khan BSc (hons), MSc - Founder of Onna Ju-Jitsu Club
• Kara Colvin – Manager, Halifax Panthers Rugby League
• Ahmed Elturabi – Vice Chair, Chapletown FC
• Umar Ahmed – EDI Lead, The Northern Premier League
Together, they explored how grassroots and professional sport can challenge racial inequality and build bridges between communities. From lived experiences to structural solutions, each speaker brought a unique and thought-provoking perspective.
The session underscored the urgent need to move beyond symbolic gestures and ensure real, lasting change in how sport engages and includes all.
Gerry Sutcliffe, Former Sports Minister, commented;
‘I’m proud to support SCAR and BOW in their vital work using sport as a catalyst for change. This event is a powerful reminder that when we come together through sport, we can challenge racism, empower underrepresented voices, and strengthen community ties. Initiatives like these are essential if we want to build a fairer and more inclusive society on and off the field.’
Tremendous effort by Mat Everett and Humayun Islam BEM BCAc for organising a terrific event.