Evergreen Collective is a Muslim, female-led organisation based in Derby. They are built on a powerful ethos: to create a space where people "genuinely feel that this is home, that they feel that they belong".
Founder and Chair, Misba Khan was inspired by communities around the world where "connection and mutual support are part of everyday life".
Evergreen Collective offers a thriving community that uplifts women and girls, particularly those who find themselves excluded - either through traditional attitudes or discrimination.
“They’ve done something quite amazing in terms of mobilising a community” says Nabillah Ismail, Development Officer at Locality. “Much of that came from creating opportunities that are safe, meet cultural and religious needs, and give people the chance to try something new.”
From boxing and cycling to arts and crafts, Evergreen offers a wide range of activities designed to boost physical and mental health. For Dr Shehla Imtiaz-Umer, a local GP and Evergreen Trustee, the impact is clear:
"I see the health impacts of what happens because of socio-economic issues and the difficulties facing marginalised communities. I think one of the main successes is the development of our hiking group and the numbers of women who come and join in activities that they normally wouldn't have access to".
That impact is echoed by Tasneem Mufti, a volunteer, who shared:
“Seventeen years ago, it would be unheard of for someone like me to be seen riding a bike. It’s about removing stigmas”.
At the heart of Evergreen’s success is its female leadership. Misba believes visibility really matters: “Seeing women lead inspires others to step up and try something new.” But leading as a Muslim women-run organisation hasn’t come without its challenges: “It’s surreal and confusing for some in the community that we’re a female-led space, specifically for women and girls” Misba explained, “But it’s about showing people that this space is needed, and we’re here to provide it.”
Now, Evergreen is embarking on its next big step. They're taking ownership of a large community building. The project is ambitious, but filled with hope:
"I hope that many years down the line, it will be a great legacy for everything that not only Misba has achieved, but evergreen collective has helped its community through as well", said Shehla.
- To learn more about Evergreen Collective, visit their website: Evergreen Collective - Encouraging Diversity and Muslim Female Representation
- You can also watch the three films we developed with them through the Community Ownership Fund—each one a powerful testament to what community-led change can look like. Community assets and ownership - MyCommunity