Empowering Minority Voices: The Story of Bowling Green Together
Located in Pollokshields, Bowling Green Together is a thriving community, dedicated to tackling isolation and improving mental well-being through inclusive social spaces.
“Bowling Green helped me connect with women from my community. We were strangers first and now we feel like we are sisters.”- Member of Bowling Green Together
A Community Hub for Connection and Well-being
Bowling Green Together is a by-and-for BAME majority-led community organisation in Pollokshields. The organisation was founded in November 2022 with a clear mission: to combat isolation, improve mental well-being, and create a welcoming social space for the community that often excluded and marginalised populations to come together.
Coming from a minority community, opportunities to connect can be limited, making you feel isolated, and that’s what this social enterprise aims to work on. It creates a welcoming space for people, especially those who are systemically disadvantaged due to their race, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, immigration status and all combined intersectional experiences.
This organisation’s motto is ‘think globally while acting locally’, which creates meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging for minority communities. Hosting events and workshops and collaborating with other groups creates a vibrant and inclusive environment where people can meet, share experiences, and celebrate diversity.
Meet the Founder
Proud of her Pakistani heritage, Tabassum Niamat is a passionate community organiser and activist residing in Pollokshields. She has spent years advocating for Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities, supporting intersectional lived experience leadership, and creating inclusive spaces.
“I want to see a world that’s kinder, more inclusive, and connected. Bowling Green is a step in that direction,” she shares.
From Idea to Impact: The Role of Firstport
In September 2023, Tabassum received a Start It grant from Firstport to support the organisation’s early journey. We asked her to reflect on her experience
What were your biggest questions at the start?
My questions were majorly around the legal structures best suited for a social enterprise, funding options, and how to market a community-rooted initiative authentically. I had a wonderful Relationship Manager, Karen Fitzsimmons, who was supportive from the very Start.
How did the Start It fund help you grow?
It was more than just funding. It offered belief, guidance, and a platform to build with purpose. It helped me turn a heartfelt vision into a structured organisation with the confidence to serve my community with integrity.
What advice would you give to someone considering reaching out to Firstport support?
Be brave, be honest. Firstport meets you where you are and walks alongside you with care and clarity.
So, what’s next for your social enterprise?
We’re expanding our community programmes and exploring new ways to empower underrepresented voices across Scotland.
Making an Impact
Since its launch, Bowling Green Together has been a hub of activity. The organisation has hosted a variety of events, including after-school activities, youth gatherings, mindfulness sessions, yoga classes, and community meals.
They also plan to expand their initiatives by growing vegetables, raising chickens, offering art therapy workshops, storytelling events, and more. Their vision is to create a space where people can dance, make music, work out, pray, and support each other through peer-led initiatives.
Join the Movement
Bowling Green Together is just getting started! Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or attend an event, your support helps grow a stronger, kinder community. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok or get in touch with them at info@bowling-green-together.co.uk.