Cycle Sisters Chair Samra Said named ‘Hero of Cycling’ by Transport for London and Santander Cycles

Cycle Sisters Chair, Samra Said, has been recognised as one of the winners of Transport for London and Santander Cycles’ International Women’s Day campaign.

As part of the campaign, 10 inspirational women have had a Santander bike named after them. Samra’s name, along with the other winners, will be on a Santander bike for the next year.  TfL invited nominations for female cycling heroes and received over 150 submissions. A judging panel from City Hall, TfL and Santander selected ten winners.

When asked how she felt about receiving the highest number of nominations, Samra told TfL:

“I’m incredibly honoured to have received the most nominations for TfL and Santander Cycles' International Women’s Day campaign. This recognition reflects the joy of cycling and the community spirit of every woman who has been part of our journey.

"Though my name is on the bike, this award is for everyone who gives their time, skills, energy and heart to Cycle Sisters. Together we are creating accessible and empowering spaces for Muslim and ethnically diverse women to cycle and become more healthy, confident and connected.”

Since becoming Chair in 2020, Samra has helped grow Cycle Sisters into a thriving network of more than 2,200 riders and over 100 volunteer Ride Leaders across London. Her leadership has focused on breaking down barriers that Muslim and ethnically diverse women face in accessing cycling.

From launching and growing local groups like Hounslow, to mentoring beginner riders, to championing diversity in national cycling spaces, Samra’s work reflects our mission to support women to build health, confidence and connection through cycling. 

This campaign forms part of TfL’s wider work with the Mayor to address the gender gap in cycling and Cycle Sisters is proud to be a part of this wider movement for change.

Congratulations to each of these inspiring women who have been recognised as part of this campaign for the work they do making cycling more inclusive! 

You can read more about them here.