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ACAA and Parkinson’s UK launch UK's first Refugee Women Zumba Club in Birmingham to empower refugee women affected by Parkinson's

Delivered by the Afghanistan & Central Asian Association (ACAA) and funded by Parkinson’s UK, the new weekly female-only classes will launch in Ladywood this December.

By contributor Darius Nasimi
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Up to 40 women can take part, including those with Parkinson’s, with trained instructors adapting movements for different levels of mobility so that everyone can participate safely and confidently.

Afghan and Central Asian communities in Birmingham are being encouraged to take part in new accessible Zumba classes designed to support women living with Parkinson’s and other movement conditions across the West Midlands.

This will be the first programme of its kind for Afghan and Central Asian refugee women affected by Parkinson’s — a condition that is often undiagnosed and largely unknown within these communities, especially when compared to more commonly recognised conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
This will be the first programme of its kind for Afghan and Central Asian refugee women affected by Parkinson’s — a condition that is often undiagnosed and largely unknown within these communities, especially when compared to more commonly recognised conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

The sessions aim to help women build strength, improve mobility, boost mood and wellbeing, and connect with their local community in a safe, culturally informed space. Carers and relatives are also welcome to join in.

Commenting on the collaboration, Darius Nasimi, Head of Funding & Partnerships at Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA), said: “The Refugee Women’s Zumba Club is more than a fitness programme – it is a safe, culturally informed space where women can rebuild confidence, improve their health and connect with their community. With support from Parkinson’s UK, we’re ensuring that women of all abilities can take part, including those living with Parkinson’s.”

Our Founder and CEO, Dr Nooralhaq Nasimi MBE, HonDSS (RHUL), was recognised in the 2023 New Year Honours List for his outstanding services to refugees. He was presented with an MBE by King Charles III during a ceremony at Windsor Castle.
Our Founder and CEO, Dr Nooralhaq Nasimi MBE, HonDSS (RHUL), was recognised in the 2023 New Year Honours List for his outstanding services to refugees. He was presented with an MBE by King Charles III during a ceremony at Windsor Castle.

Accessible Zumba is known to support people with Parkinson’s by reducing stiffness, improving balance, boosting energy and enhancing overall wellbeing.

Venue: Unit 24, Kenyon Forge, Kenyon Street, Birmingham, B18 6DH.

In 2018, ACAA was honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, a recognition of its outstanding commitment to the community.
In 2018, ACAA was honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, a recognition of its outstanding commitment to the community.