HUNDREDS of women across Swansea are gaining a powerful confidence boost, thanks to a dynamic new initiative from Mioe CIC. Spearheaded by community leaders Zoe Gealy and Amina Abu-Shahba, ‘The Women’s Collective’—funded by the National Lottery—has launched a series of events designed to inspire, uplift, and connect women from all walks of life.
Among the standout activities are groundbreaking ‘Skateboard Sessions’ at Exist Skatepark, which have welcomed over 80 women, many aged 40 and over, challenging themselves in a traditionally male-dominated space. Many have started skateboarding permanently and others have taken their new confidence into other endeavours.
Over the past six months, The Women’s Collective has also hosted an ‘Empowerment Day’ in Brynmill with workshops on yoga, menopause, creative writing, and overcoming the inner critic. Other events include a documentary project with Women’s Aid, mindful photography sessions, dance classes, menopause yoga, and a music industry event at The Bunkhouse.
Zoe Gealy said: “As a city-wide network, we’re sharing knowledge and support to help women step beyond their comfort zones. We focus on tackling the inner critic, understanding our bodies, and recognising our collective strength.”
“The response has been incredibly positive,” she added. “It’s been so rewarding to see women connect and make real changes in their lives.”
Amina Abu-Shahba highlighted the broader social issues driving the project. She said: “Women in Swansea still face significant inequalities—from the gender pay gap and lack of representation in leadership, to higher rates of domestic and sexual violence.
“Many are juggling care work and employment with very little time for themselves. We’re here to help people to connect, share expertise and creativity, and to create a platform to share women’s stories.”
Participants have echoed the initiative’s impact.
Melissa Thomas of Sketty said: “My confidence has improved dramatically. I’m stepping outside my comfort zone with new experiences, surrounded by a supportive group of new friends.”
Sophie Wilson from Clydach agreed: “It’s great to connect with other women and try things I never would have had access to. These sessions have improved my mental health and lifestyle. We’re supporting each other to grow—it’s been a revelation.”
The Women’s Collective is delivered by Mioe Creative Productions, a community interest company founded by Zoe and Amina. With over 20 years’ experience working in Swansea’s communities, the duo also created the ‘Swansea Women’s Swap Shop’ Facebook group during the pandemic, which now boasts over 5,000 members—helping women in need while keeping millions of items out of landfill.
Upcoming events include a six-week Strength Training course, starting on May 7, a social at Ground Plant Based Café on May 20 and a film premiere at Taliesin Arts Centre on May 24. For more information about Mioe, email [email protected]
@mioecreativeproductions on Instagram and Facebook
