In this month’s Paddler Spotlight, we’re spotlighting a brilliant project in East London that’s bringing mothers and daughters together through kayaking. This programme is not only helping more women and girls discover the joys of paddling but also creating lasting family connections on the water.
The Black Swimming Association (BSA) and Moo Canoes teamed up to offer free kayaking taster sessions at Poplar Union in Tower Hamlets for mothers and daughters. The response was overwhelming, prompting the BSA to add two extra sessions and start a waiting list.
“It was a great chance for us to spend quality time together.”
Funded by Paddle UK and run in partnership with Poplar HARCA, these sessions encouraged daughters to take the lead on the water. Sitting at the front of the kayak, they guided their mothers along the canal and throughout the sessions. This role reversal not only added a sense of fun but also fostered teamwork and adventure between families.
One participant shared, “I’m so proud of us. We have never done this before, thank you for the opportunity.”
The sessions helped build confidence and created lasting memories within the community.
Even when faced with challenging weather conditions during the final sessions, participants embraced the experience, proving their resilience and enjoying every moment on the water.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many families saying they are excited about future opportunities to get back on the water and develop their paddling skills.
Another participant shared, “My daughter was almost too scared to come this morning, but now that she has tried kayaking, we’ve realised she’s a natural. We need more of these activities locally.”
Many families are continuing their paddling journey through their local paddling club, Oar and Explore. This connection ensures that mothers and daughters can keep developing their skills in a familiar and supportive environment, promoting long-term health, wellness, and a love for paddling.
Get involved
The Blue Hour programme by the Black Swimming Association (BSA) is an initiative focused on introducing water safety and aquatic activities to women and girls from low-income, diverse communities. It aims to break down barriers to water participation and address the underrepresentation of these groups in aquatic sports. The programme emphasises drowning prevention, water familiarisation, and community-building by providing intergenerational families and young people with opportunities to engage in swimming.
If you’re interested in learning more about BSA’s Blue Hour programme or participating in future sessions, please get in touch at or visit their website for more details.