Opening Boundaries, Bowling Out initiative have gained local and national recognition for their work in empowering communities to stand up against violence towards women and girls through sport.

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On the 25th November the world came together to make a stand and support the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls. On this day and a timely event, Bradford College hosted their Inaugural White Ribbon UK awards. The evening was set to praise the achievements of those making an impact in supporting, taking action and campaigning against violence towards women and girls in any form.

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The college recognised and awarded students, staff and community services who have all supported victims at risk or have been subjected to violence. The event was attended by a host of dignitaries including Labours Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities MP Paula Shariff, Internationally renowned Imam Qari Asim, MP Naz Shah, founder of White Ribbon UK, Chris Green and Major Lisa Marr from the Armed Services.

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Halima Khan, Founder and Director of Opening Boundaries was recognised for setting up a “Bowling Out Domestic Violence” campaign with the Armed Services and using the Sport of Cricket as a platform to empower women in speaking out and seeking the right channels of support to understand and how to deal with violence issues.

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Chris Green stated “We are extremely pleased to present Halima  with this award and recognising her efforts of using Sport as a tool to educate and spread the message to end violence against women and girls. Her commitment to engage with new audiences and influence them will only spread the message of equality and peace and she deserves to be applauded for her efforts.

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Ikram Butt,  a White Ribbon ambassador went onto the say “ Opening Boundaries has been set up for two main reasons, to provide women and girls with the opportunity to take part in sport and physical activity, regardless of their background and to educate society in creating a world free of violence against women and girls".

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"As newly formed organisation receiving an award from a national organisation is a true testament to the hard work they are doing in campaigning and supporting the message of White Ribbon UK".