In My Own Words: Tia's journey with the Big Sister Project
Hear from one of our participants!
Since launching the Big Sister project with Women in Sport, we’ve not only been supporting more girls to enjoy sport and exercise – we’ve had the privilege of watching them grow in confidence as a result.
Take ten-year-old Tia for example. When she joined our Big Sister gym class, Tia was full of first-day nerves. Fast forward six weeks however and this young gymnast is barely recognisable from the shy girl we met initially – even stepping up to help Big Sister instructor Chelsea Sampson to teach our younger We Move class.
Here’s what Tia has to say about the Big Sister Project:
“I was very nervous at first, but Chelsea made me feel very welcome. I love how she gets us talking about what we like in sports and lets us try new things; it’s helped me to make new friends.
“Since starting I’ve had the opportunity to try Boxfit, circuits, Pilates, meditation and in-door cycling. I’ve also had the chance to pick the music for our gym class and stand in front of the class teaching my classmates and sharing my passion for gymnastics."
“I really enjoy the classes and always look forward to the next one. And my confidence has grown so much."
Tia’s transformation since signing up for the Big Sister Project has been incredible. Thanks to her new-found self belief, Tia recently stepped up to talk about her experience at a school assembly, which meant that other girls could learn about the power of the Big Sister Project and follow in her footsteps.
Instructor Chelsea couldn’t be prouder of her ‘little sister’ Tia, here’s what she has to say:
“One of the most rewarding things about this programme is watching the girls’ confidence grow, seeing new friendships form, and witnessing them try things they might never have had the opportunity to before.
“Tia was quite shy when she first joined us, so we focused on building her confidence through what she already loves – gymnastics and cheerleading. Over the next two weeks, Tia blossomed. She started coming to me with warm-up ideas and cheer moves, and even chose the music she wanted to use. Watching her take ownership and grow through that experience was absolutely inspiring.
“Not long after, Tia led the class she had helped create – and it was like seeing a completely different girl from the one who had joined us just weeks before. My heart was bursting with pride!
“Our Big Sister programme is more than just movement – it’s about building confidence, Community, and changing lives. Tia is living proof of that.”
Well done Tia – you really are an inspiration!
Could you – or someone you know – grow your inner confidence through being active like Tia? Our Big Sister programme helps girls aged 9-15 develop a lifelong love of fitness, with a free or 50% discounted membership providing access to our gyms, classes, virtual studio and swimming pools.