Celebration is important. But without a focus on learning from community led organisations, it's an opportunity missed

Celebrating 25 Years of Active Life Club Glasgow

Active Life Club Glasgow, a community-based organisation founded in 1999, has been a driving force in inspiring young people to participate in sports and develop their leadership skills. Over the past 25 years, they have achieved remarkable success in fostering a vibrant and inclusive sporting environment.

Recently, I had the privilege of attending their 25th-anniversary celebration. The event was a testament to the organisation's impact and the passion of its leaders. While half a dozen sports governing bodies were present to commemorate this milestone, many sporting bodies were invited but failed to even respond to the invitation. Having DEI plans and strategies is one thing, but if you fail to take the opportunities to learn from where the action is at, organisations will continue to make the same mistakes.  

Active Life Club's ability to create a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere on a limited budget is truly commendable. The event was a stark contrast to the often sterile and exclusive gatherings we are all used to attending. There were no ties, blazers or a heavily curated programme.  Just an event that gave space for everyone who attended and supported, meaning hundreds of people will have all taken something different and unique from the diversity of things showcased by a variety of community led partners who have worked with Active Life Club over the years.

A demonstration of talent

All of this was curated by Active Life Club’s young leaders. Not only have Active Life Club given opportunities to countless young athletes, they have also developed exceptional leaders who possess the skills and passion to make a significant impact in the sporting world.

However, these leaders are underrepresented in coaching, leadership, and boardroom roles within our sporting institutions. To fully leverage the potential of Active Life Club, we must go beyond celebration and embrace the learning and influence their approach to community development can have on sport. Our sporting systems would be significantly enhanced if they could learn from their approach and tap into their talent pool.

The recent census revealed that one-third of Glasgow's young people are ethnically diverse. Increasing diversity and fostering a sense of belonging is no longer just a moral imperative; it's essential for the success and sustainability of our sporting organisations. By prioritising inclusivity and cultural competence, sports bodies can create a more equitable and vibrant environment that attracts and retains diverse talent.

True partnership involves learning not just occasional support

Partnering with organisations like Active Life Club can provide sports bodies with valuable insights and resources. By learning from their expertise and tapping into their network of talented young people, these organisations can elevate their work, increase participation, and strengthen their connection with diverse communities.

Moreover, embracing a community-driven approach can lead to greater social cohesion and positive change within our society. By providing opportunities for young people to participate in sports and develop leadership skills, we can help address social issues, promote healthy lifestyles, and inspire the next generation of athletes and leaders.

Active Life Club Glasgow's 25th anniversary serves as a reminder of the power of community-driven initiatives in fostering sporting success and social change. But only if we take the opportunity ahead of us.  

For true progress to be made, we need the next 25 year celebration not to be of the uniqueness of such initiatives. We need it to be about how by learning from projects like this, sport has made these types of approaches the beating heart of their organisations. That they have diverse participation, leadership and a genuinely fun, culturally appropriate and engaging way of bringing sport to many more people.  

So let’s celebrate the brilliance of Active Life Club. But in doing so let us not go back to doing the same things, lets embrace the learning they offer and help transform our approach to sport for people for the better.