One of the most powerful parts of delivering our programmes, including the Together for Wellbeing programme, is meeting the people behind community-led organisations and hearing the stories that drive their work. They have stories of hope, positivity, community and a deep drive for making the world a better place.
Again and again, we’re reminded that meaningful change often starts at a very local level – rooted in trust, lived experience and a deep commitment to community wellbeing. Often when faced with awful things happening we wonder “well, what can I do?” – sometimes feel helpless to things going on in the world.
But the organisations we are fortunate enough to cross paths with take that thought and put it into action, building an organisation with the intention of doing something about those feelings, about doing good in the world.
Today, we’re proud to spotlight UFFO Athletic and Leisure Group Ltd, founded by Mohammed Ismail, who participated in our Together for Wellbeing programme.
Reducing isolation and improving wellbeing through movement
UFFO Athletic and Leisure Group is committed to reducing physical inactivity, tackling social isolation, and improving the mental wellbeing of Somali and Muslim communities across London. Their approach is simple but powerful: inclusive physical activity that meets people where they are.
From weekly health and wellbeing walks to structured sports sessions, UFFO creates safe, welcoming spaces where people of all ages can move their bodies, connect with others and prioritise their health in a way that aligns with their cultural values.
Health and wellbeing walks in South London
Since 2021, UFFO has delivered weekly Health and Wellbeing Walks across Lambeth and Southwark for Somali men and women of the global majority. The sustained demand for these walks speaks volumes about the trust UFFO has built within the community.
What makes these sessions especially impactful is that they are led by trained volunteer walk leaders from the communities themselves. Their lived experience, passion and understanding help participants feel supported, motivated and seen.
The Somali men’s walks are funded by Transport for London in partnership with the London Marathon Foundation, while the women’s walks are supported by Lambeth Council’s Community Fund, administered by the London Community Foundation.
Supporting home-schooled children through sport
In 2023, UFFO responded to another unmet need by launching a home-schooling sports (PE) project in Southwark. Working closely with Somali and Muslim parents who home-educate their children, the project addresses the lack of access to regular, structured physical education for home-schooled young people.
The programme delivers weekly, term-time multi-sport sessions – including athletics – alongside an annual summer sports day. Children are supported to develop fundamental movement skills such as agility, coordination, jumping and throwing, while also building confidence, social skills and friendships.
Beyond physical health, the project aims to:
- Improve mental wellbeing among children and families
- Empower parents to better support their children’s learning and development
- Reach more home-schooled families across Southwark and neighbouring boroughs
- Explore opportunities to connect with home-schooling communities across London
Part of the Together for Wellbeing programme
As a participant in our Together for Wellbeing programme, UFFO Athletic and Leisure Group has been part of a wider community of organisations focused on strengthening wellbeing, resilience and impact. Mohammed’s work is a powerful example of how grassroots organisations are driving long-term change by centring culture, community and care.
We’re proud to support organisations like UFFO and to share their work with our wider network.
You can find out more about UFFO Athletic and Leisure Group by visiting their website here
About the Together for Wellbeing programme:
Together for Wellbeing is a new mental health incubator to support early-stage social enterprises that was launched in 2025.
This six-month programme, running from September 2025 to March 2026, is a direct response to what we heard from changemakers on the front lines. Impact Hub London’s goal is to provide the support you need to tackle the systemic challenges that impact mental wellbeing and prevent people from facing mental health challenges.
We are particularly focused on supporting entrepreneurs who are working on systemic interventions, such as improving employment and economic security, fostering social connection and/or enhancing access to green spaces. By addressing the underlying drivers of performance, we empower your business to expand its impact – moving beyond managing mental health challenges.
About Impact Hub London:
Impact Hub London is a catalyst for positive change in the environmental and social world. We connect social entrepreneurs, investors, corporate companies and like-minded people alike. We do this through offering memberships to our hub in Euston for coworking, private offices and fixed desks, as well as day passes and day offices, and our event space. Additionally, we run programmes alongside value-driven partners to enable social entrepreneurs to bring their idea to life, through incubators, workshops and more.
